A brave new world of Internet of Things (IoT), or Internet of Medical Things (IoMT), is taking shape in healthcare. The industry is experiencing an explosion of connected medical devices, ranging from evermore networked systems within the health system to remote monitoring, wearable, and implantable devices. With increased use of connected devices, however, comes greater vulnerability. Protecting medical device safety and reducing the risk to healthcare networks, systems, data, and patients require a multilayered approach that goes beyond traditional security hygiene. Security risks must be assessed and addressed at all levels: device, system, network, data, access, education, and governance—across, as well as beyond, the health system. The problem of medical device security is complex, widespread, and growing. To address these challenges, responsibility cannot lie with just any one entity. Device manufacturers, healthcare providers, security experts, patients, and governing bodies must work together on both immediate remediation and longer-term protection.

Updated: 11-29-2016