Cybersecurity, telehealth top of mind for 'Most Wired' hospitals

The major healthcare breaches of 2015 and recent ransomware attacks have put cybersecurity at the forefront for 2016's "Most Wired" hospitals.

More than 680 providers, who represent more than 2,146 hospitals, responded to the survey about their IT use. The report is sponsored by the American Hospital Association’s Health Forum and publlished at Hospitals & Health Networks.

In addition to defensive measures, such as intrusion detection systems, and employee education on security risks, 67 percent of the Most Wired hospitals are using pattern detection to prevent automated logins, up from 48 percent in 2013.

Telemedicine is another area these organizations are giving a lot of attention.

Stroke care through virtual means is showing the most rapid growth, according to an announcement, increasing 38 percent in the past year. In addition, the most commonly offered telehealth services include consultations and office visits (61 percent), psychiatric examinations and psychotherapy (47 percent). More than 25 percent offer remote monitoring for patients with chronic diseases such as congestive heart failure and diabetes.

“Hospitals are breaking out of their traditional four walls and providing care where and when patients need it,” Rick Pollack, president and CEO of the AHA, said in the announcement.

Both data secuity and patient engagement, especially through portals and mobile apps, were top of mind for the Most Wired hospitals in 2015. 

To learn more:
- here are the survey results
- read the announcement