A new report from Deloitte India and the Data Security Council of India (DSCI) highlights significant strides made by hospitals in India to enhance their cybersecurity resilience. Nearly 89% of hospitals have adopted Third-Party Risk Management (TPRM) systems, a crucial step in safeguarding patient data and addressing cybersecurity threats within the vendor network. These systems help protect sensitive data and strengthen relationships with vendors, ensuring a more secure environment for digital healthcare services. However, despite this progress, only 10% of hospitals have fully implemented comprehensive data privacy programs, suggesting room for improvement in securing patient information.
The report underscores the growing importance of robust cybersecurity frameworks as hospitals increasingly incorporate technologies like AI-driven diagnostics, telemedicine, and robotic surgeries. While 90% of hospitals have established crisis management plans to address potential cyberattacks, only 60% conduct regular crisis simulation exercises. This gap in preparedness leaves many hospitals vulnerable to emerging threats like ransomware attacks, data breaches, and insider risks. To bridge this gap, the report stresses the need for hospitals to allocate 12-15% of their budgets to cybersecurity and digital infrastructure over the next two years.
Despite these challenges, the report also highlights some positive trends in India’s healthcare sector. Approximately 70% of hospitals have prioritized adopting Zero Trust security frameworks, and 80% now maintain Electronic Medical Records (EMRs), reflecting a commitment to secure and tech-driven healthcare solutions. Moreover, 50% of hospitals have secured cyber insurance policies, a sign of growing awareness about the financial risks posed by cyberattacks. However, the sector faces significant challenges, such as a shortage of skilled professionals and financial pressures due to the growing demand for cloud migration and advanced cybersecurity solutions.
Looking ahead, the future of India’s healthcare sector will depend on its ability to balance rapid technological advancements with solid cybersecurity practices. The report suggests that hospitals must invest in workforce training, system upgrades, and advanced cybersecurity protocols to mitigate the growing risks. By focusing on collaboration between healthcare and IT teams, as well as prioritizing risk management strategies, hospitals can enhance their resilience against cyber threats while providing efficient and secure patient care.
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