As we approach another National Cyber Security Awareness Month in October, there’s no better time to reflect on the critical role you and our practices play in protecting your patients – not just physically, but also digitally.
Even if you’re not a tech or cyber expert, little daily actions can make or break your practice’s cyber security posture.
Cyber security isn’t just an IT issue anymore – it is a patient safety issue. Hacked systems can delay providing vital treatments, expose your valuable patient records and damage your practice’s reputation.
Healthcare Continues to be the Top Target
According to Notifiable Data Breaches Report, for July – December 2024, published by the Office of the Australian Information Commissioner (OAIC), Health service providers, once again topped the sectors to notify that a data breach had occurred.
It is important to note however, that data breaches are not just the result of malicious or criminal attacks. Data breaches also often occur due to human error, underlining the importance of ensuring your staff are properly trained and have the skills to remain vigilant in the face of conflicting daily priorities and constant attempts by malicious actors to attack systems.
To assist with the important task of upskilling your team with the necessary cyber skills your practice needs to help keep your practice secure, we have compiled several resources to help guide your cyber journey:
The Bp training team have developed a free education resource for all our practices, called Practicalities of Cybersecurity at Your Practices.
This is an introductory course that will explain some of the terminology and concepts in cybersecurity that are relevant to medical practices. The course also introduces some best practices around staff training on cybersecurity, including how to spot a phishing email, what a social engineering phone call might sound like, and the importance of due diligence around third party integrations.
We’ve provided plenty of up-to-date Australian government and peak body resources to start creating and updating your own practice policies on privacy and cybersecurity.
For further information, please click here.
As a trusted partner of Best Practice Software and most importantly as a medical provider, you are at the frontline of digital health – and with that unfortunately comes growing cyber risks. That’s why strengthening your cyber awareness is essential for safeguarding your practice and the well-being of your patients.
Best Practice encourage and invite you to register for the Australian Digital Health Agencies (ADHA) Cyber Champions Network. The Champion’s Network is a national community of digital health leaders and advocates who are committed to creating a more secure and cyber resilient healthcare sector for all Australians.
Why join the ADHA Champions Network?
- Stay informed of the latest cyber threats and health updates.
- Gain access to cyber resources and development opportunities.
- Help shape a safer, digitally connected healthcare system.
It does not matter if you’re a cyber guru at your practice or just beginning your journey, the Cyber Champions Network is designed to support and empower you to become a cyber champion and help safeguard your patient’s sensitive health information.
To join the ADHA Champions Network, you can Register via the ADHA Website here.
As the world embraces digital patient records, the line between clinical care and digital responsibility is thinner than ever.
During Cybersecurity Awareness Month, take a moment to talk with your staff, review your digital habits, and commit to simple changes that can protect your patients and your practice.
You care for your patient’s every day – make sure their data is just as protected.
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