Fast-Track on digital security in health
In response to the increase of cyberattacks in health care settings, the Health Committee
of the OECD asked for a paper on Digital Security as part of the OECD ongoing work
on health data governance. This working paper emphasizes that as the healthcare industry
undergoes digital transformation it brings significant benefits while simultaneously
escalating the vulnerability to cyber threats.
This working paper summarises survey results based on the OECD framework for digital
security risk management. The paper reveals varying levels of digital security alignment
among countries, with Ireland and Korea exhibiting full alignment. Countries with
specific strategies for digital security in health showed higher alignment to leading
practices. The paper identifies key areas for improvement, including fostering a digital
security culture through training, strengthening strategy and governance, and embedding
risk assessment and treatment.
The paper also emphasises the need for collaboration on innovative tools to detect
and manage digital security threats, such as multi-factor authentication and encryption.
These collaborative efforts are essential to safeguard the digital foundations of
modern healthcare systems and ensure the security of health data and services.
Available from November 24, 2023
In series:OECD Health Working Papersview more titles