Epic UGM 2024 showcased a multitude of advancements, notably in AI and interoperable healthcare solutions. Distinguished announcements included an AI chatbot demo that leveraged MyChart and Cosmos data to enhance patient interaction and recovery assessment, and the introduction of the Epic Payer Platform, providing free services to health systems for better integration with payers. Expansion efforts for Garden Plot aimed at small to medium practices, incorporation of genomics data in Epic Cosmos, and over 100 ongoing AI projects further underscored Epic's commitment to advancing healthcare technology. Additional developments touched on precision medicine, new modules, and enhanced communication tools, reflecting Epic's broad approach to healthcare innovation.

A Plethora of Announcements at Epic UGM 2024…and a Few Weren’t Even AI Healthcare IT Today

The author expresses skepticism about the value of cyber insurance after engaging in a frustrating process with their carrier to establish a response plan. Despite purchasing the insurance for contractual reasons, the carrier showed little proactive interest in preparing the client for incidents. Challenges included delays in securing a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) and business associate agreement (BAA), inadequate onboarding support, and the need to manually remove former employees from communication channels. The author also questions the efficacy of cyber insurance, citing instances of low claims payouts and industry struggles to quantify cyber risk, suggesting some organizations might be better off investing in improved preventative controls rather than insurance premiums.

Cyber insurance: what is it good for? StackAware

The article discusses the growing threat of cyberattacks on hospitals and the broader healthcare industry. It highlights various incidents of security breaches, explores the consequences these attacks have on medical facilities and patient care, and emphasizes the urgent need for improved cybersecurity measures. Strategies such as adopting comprehensive security frameworks, investing in advanced technology, and conducting regular training for healthcare staff are recommended to mitigate these risks and protect sensitive health information from cyber threats.

What We Learned From the Cyberattack on Change Healthcare — The Wall Street Journal wsj.com

The article advocates for the establishment of an independent U.S. Cyber Force, emphasizing that current distributed cyber defense efforts are insufficient in facing the sophisticated and frequent cyber threats from adversaries like China, Russia, and Iran. It argues that a dedicated cyber force would fill gaps in capabilities, training, and innovation, while providing streamlined command, specialized recruitment, and enhanced adaptability. Comparisons to the recently established U.S. Space Force are made to illustrate the need for specialized military branches to address unique operational challenges. The article counters concerns about redundancy and cost by noting potential efficiencies and long-term benefits, asserting the necessity of a robust cyber force to safeguard national security.

The case for an independent U.S. Cyber Force defensescoop.com