Cybersecurity challenges in healthcare: mitigating risks in a rapidly evolving digital landscape

Abstract

The rapid digital transformation of the healthcare sector brings significant benefits but also exposes institutions to escalating cybersecurity risks. This study analyzes vulnerabilities such as ransomware, supply chain compromises, and insider threats, drawing on international reports from World Health Organization (WHO), Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS), Ponemon, and Verizon. The paper contributes a unique mitigation framework that consolidates three strategic pillars: i) continuous cybersecurity training for medical staff, ii) deployment of advanced technological safeguards, and iii) establishment of collaborative incident reporting mechanisms. Beyond mapping current threats, the study provides policy-oriented guidance for strengthening resilience in both developed and emerging healthcare systems. With healthcare breaches costing an average of $10.1 million per incident, the findings highlight the urgent need for coordinated action to ensure patient safety, service continuity, and institutional trust.