Healthcare providers use third-party expertise to enhance cloud and cybersecurity

The HFS HCP Horizons study highlights the increasing reliance on service providers for cloud needs and cybersecurity amid growing digital threats and the evolving technology landscape. We identified some major trends:

• Cloud transformation is growing in demand: With the increasing volume of healthcare data and its usage, healthcare providers (HCPs) are using the cloud to manage large data volumes in EHR (electronic health record) efficiently. This gives them a flexible, scalable, and cost-effective IT solutions approach. Cloud-based solutions allow HCPs to efficiently handle large-scale data, facilitate remote healthcare services, and support the integration of advanced analytical tools. The cloud has also improved the data-sharing process, reducing in-house infrastructural and operational costs in healthcare organizations.
• Cybersecurity services: HCPs increasingly face cybersecurity risks—evident from the significant rise in data breaches and ransomware attacks. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office for Civil Rights (OCR) reported a 239% increase in hacking-related data breaches between January 01, 2018 and September 30, 2023 and a 278% increase in ransomware attacks during the same period. The increase in cyber threats likely drives the demand for robust security solutions, reflecting a proactive approach to protecting patient data and operational continuity.
• Convergence between cloud transformation and cybersecurity: To harness the benefits of the cloud, the security and privacy of patient data must be ensured. As more devices get connected, the exposure to cyber threats is increasing. HCPs should identify security challenges, review present security solutions, and stay up-to-date on threats and security solutions whenever required.

The Bottom Line: Strengthening cybersecurity and cloud will be crucial for improving triple aim amid growing digital threats and the evolving technology landscape.