Online appointments leaving your practice exposed?
The coronavirus pandemic has forced us into a more digital world than we could have imagined, much to the delight of cyber criminals. Just last month the National Cyber Security Centre warned the healthcare sectors in the UK and the US about what they call ‘advanced persistent threats’. While NHS systems are no stranger to cyberattacks, with attention being diverted to the immediate public health emergency as well as the increased use of technology as a result of the pandemic, we could be headed for the perfect storm.
So what does that mean for your GP surgery?
As lockdown restrictions ease, it is likely that individual practices will be left with less guidance and more flexibility about their individual operations. As a result, if you choose to continue to conduct appointments and pay suppliers online, and rely heavily on digital forms of communication with patients and staff, your practice will be responsible for ensuring you have robust processes and protection.
What can you do to protect your practice?
There are a number of great resources available to you. Here are a few we would recommend:
• The National Security Centre’s advice to the public sector has a wealth of information tailored to your industry. Find out more here.
• Our cyber risk assessment will help you identify where you feel your practice is most at risk. Download a copy here.
• Bookmark the NHS Digital website so you can report incidents quickly and stay abreast of alerts.
• Talk to us about cyber liability and data insurance. Most surgery insurance policies are not designed to protect you against such a new risk as cyber-crime but there is specialist cover available. Find out more about Lloyd & Whyte’s cyber insurance here.
We’re here for you
The pandemic has changed the way we work as well but while some of us social distance in the office and others work from home, we’re still fully operational. We’re available to help our clients with their insurance queries and maintain the same great service you have come to expect.
If you have any questions or concerns about the advice in this article, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
