The challenges of cloud security in healthcare

The move to the cloud offers healthcare institutions enormous opportunities, but also brings challenges. IT managers and CISOs face the complex task of securing patient data, financial data, and other sensitive information in an environment where they have less direct control. In addition, the industry is facing a changing threat landscape, in which cybercriminals are becoming increasingly sophisticated.

How do you ensure that your healthcare institution is not only safe, but also agile and ready for the future? A well-thought-out cloud strategy and a thorough focus on security are crucial.

Healthcare Institutions' Biggest Pain Points in Moving to the Cloud

1. Ensuring compliance

Healthcare institutions must comply with strict laws and regulations, such as the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and specific sectoral guidelines such as NEN 7510 and NEN 7513. This requires a solution that not only secures data, but also provides the necessary reporting and transparency. With Azure, you get access to built-in compliance capabilities that make regulatory compliance easier, without sacrificing scalability.

2. Cyber threat protection

Cybercriminals have been targeting the healthcare industry for years, with ransomware attacks and data theft as growing risks. In an industry where every second counts, an attack can have a direct impact on the continuity of care processes. Azure offers advanced security features, such as Microsoft Defender for Cloud, that help you detect and neutralize threats before they cause damage.

3. Keeping a grip on costs

The cloud promises flexibility, but without a good plan, unforeseen costs can quickly outweigh the benefits. By leveraging Azure's integrated monitoring and cost-management , you can gain real-time insight into and optimize your spend. This helps to avoid financial surprises.

4. Access and identity management

Many different professionals work together within healthcare institutions, from doctors and nurses to administrative staff. It is crucial that only authorized individuals have access to sensitive information. With a Zero Trust approach and tools like Entra-ID, you can easily manage and secure access, without compromising on usability.

A strategic approach to a secure cloud transition

A secure transition to the cloud requires a structured approach. Here are some essential steps:

• Take stock of your current environment
  Start with a thorough analysis of your IT infrastructure. Which systems need to be migrated, which data is the most sensitive, and where are the greatest risks?

• Take a hybrid or step-by-step approach
  Many healthcare organizations choose to work with a hybrid cloud solution first, so that they can migrate step by step and better manage risk.

• Implement a solid security strategy
  Leverage tools like Defender for Cloud and Sentinel to monitor your environment, detect threats, and respond quickly to incidents.

• Provide training and awareness
  Technology is only one side of the coin. Employees are an important link in cybersecurity. By training them and making them aware of the risks, you reduce the risk of human error.

Why choose Azure in healthcare?

Azure offers specific benefits for healthcare institutions, including:

• Built-in compliance support: Easily manage and report on laws and regulations.
• Strong security features: From advanced threat detection to access management.
• Scalability and flexibility: Azure grows with your organization, both technically and financially.

Learn how your healthcare facility can safely make the transition

Moving to the cloud offers unprecedented opportunities, but it also requires a careful approach. Do you want to discover how you can effectively protect your digital environment while remaining flexible in responding to changing healthcare needs?