What You Should Know:
– In a collaborative effort championed by the White House, the American Hospital Association (AHA), Microsoft, and Google announced a new initiative to bolster cybersecurity defenses in rural hospitals across the United States.
– The cybersecurity-focused initiative comes in response to the rising threat of cyberattacks on healthcare providers and the critical role rural hospitals play in their communities.
The AHA: A Leader in Cybersecurity Advocacy
The AHA has been a driving force in advocating for robust cybersecurity measures within the healthcare industry. They have facilitated communication between hospitals, federal agencies, and law enforcement to combat cyber threats, while also promoting the exchange of information and best practices.
The Programs: Addressing Rural Hospital Needs
The initiative offers distinct programs from Microsoft and Google, specifically tailored to address the needs of rural hospitals:
- Microsoft Cybersecurity Program for Rural Hospitals: This program provides significant discounts (up to 75%) on security solutions optimized for smaller organizations. Additionally, some larger rural hospitals already using Microsoft solutions will receive their most advanced security suite at no cost for one year. Free services include Windows 10 security updates, cybersecurity assessments, and staff training. For more information and program registration, visit https://aka.ms/Microsoft_Security_Rural_Hospitals
- Google Offerings and Resources: Google will provide complimentary endpoint security consultations to rural hospitals and non-profit organizations, along with a funding pool to support software migration. They will also launch a pilot program to develop customized security packages specifically addressing the needs of rural hospitals. Stay tuned for further details on Google’s offerings and participation opportunities.
The AHA: Continued Commitment to Cybersecurity
The AHA remains dedicated to supporting hospitals in their fight against cyberattacks. They offer a comprehensive suite of cybersecurity resources for members, including a Preferred Cybersecurity Provider Program to connect hospitals with vetted security solution providers. John Riggi, the AHA’s National Advisor for Cybersecurity and Risk, leads these efforts, leveraging his extensive experience in cybersecurity.
Statement from AHA President and CEO Rick Pollack
“Cybersecurity is paramount for America’s hospitals, but it’s a shared responsibility,” stated Rick Pollack, President and CEO of the AHA. “While hospitals have invested heavily in cybersecurity, they can’t go it alone. The commitments from Microsoft and Google are crucial, especially for our struggling rural hospitals.”
Pollack emphasized the continued need for collaboration between government, industry, and healthcare providers to ensure all hospitals have access to essential cybersecurity resources.
