Urgent $75 Million Needed to Secure Rural Hospitals Against Cyber Threats
The Register
|
Contributed by: Drex DeFord
Summary
Cybersecurity improvements for rural hospitals in the U.S. are estimated to require over $75 million, as these facilities face heightened risks from cyberattacks, primarily phishing and ransomware, which account for 93% of incidents. Research shows that cyberattacks can lead to increased patient mortality rates, intensifying concerns for already struggling rural hospitals. Implementing essential cybersecurity measures could cost between $30,000 and $40,000 per facility, with a total investment for around 2,100 rural hospitals potentially reaching $45 million. The situation underscores the need for a collaborative effort among healthcare providers, policymakers, and security vendors to enhance cyber defenses, given that rural hospitals cater to about 46 million Americans.
