HC3: Analyst Note TLP Clear Securing Telehealth: Challenges and Solutions – January 8, 2025

Executive Summary

Telehealth leverages telecommunications and information technology to bridge the gap between healthcare providers and patients physically separated by distance. It encompasses a wide range of services, including health assessment, diagnosis, intervention, consultation, supervision, and information exchange. As telehealth evolves, its applications extend beyond traditional clinical settings, reaching patients in the comfort of their homes through virtual consultations and remote monitoring, but it also brings with it a new set of challenges, particularly in the field of cybersecurity. The integration of technology into healthcare services introduces vulnerabilities that malicious actors may exploit, and cyberattacks in the healthcare sector can lead to significant consequences. Understanding the associated cybersecurity risks is crucial for developing strategies to safeguard patient data, maintain privacy, and ensure the integrity of telehealth systems. The growing importance of cybersecurity in telehealth and the need for robust security measures is essential.

Report

Telehealth offers numerous benefits. Its convenience allows patients to receive medical consultations and treatments from the comfort of their homes, eliminating the need for travel and reducing wait time. Telehealth also enhances accessibility, especially for individuals in rural or underserved areas who might otherwise struggle to access healthcare services. It is also cost effective, reducing healthcare expenses by minimizing the need for physical infrastructure and enabling efficient resource utilization, ultimately leading to lower costs for patients and providers.

View the detailed Analysis Note below.