Cybersecurity in Healthcare: Protecting Patient Data and Ensuring System Integrity

Abstract

As healthcare organizations increasingly adopt digital systems for managing patient data and clinical processes, they face escalating cybersecurity threats that jeopardize both patient privacy and system integrity. Cyber attacks, particularly ransomware, phishing, and data breaches, have become common in the healthcare sector due to the high value of health information on the black market and the often inadequate security infrastructure of healthcare systems. This paper explores the current state of cybersecurity in healthcare, highlighting vulnerabilities, attack vectors, and recent case studies of breaches within the sector. Furthermore, it examines strategies for strengthening healthcare cybersecurity, including implementing robust encryption protocols, investing in training and awareness, and adopting multi-factor authentication. By addressing these issues, healthcare institutions can better protect patient data, ensure operational continuity, and comply with regulatory standards such as the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). This paper underscores the need for proactive cybersecurity measures in healthcare to preserve patient trust and uphold the quality of care amidst a growing digital transformation.