Protecting Critical Infrastructure in Hospitals and Labs
By Ellie Gabel, Associate Editor, Revolutionized
LinkedIn: Elle Rose
LinkedIn: Revolutionized
The rapid digitization of healthcare has ushered in a new era of connectivity and efficiency, led by the rise of the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT). This vast network of connected medical devices — from infusion pumps and patient monitors to smart imaging systems — forms the digital backbone of modern hospitals and laboratories.
However, with increased connectivity comes heightened vulnerability. As cyberattacks on healthcare systems rise, securing IoMT has become a top priority for healthcare IT leaders and administrators.
The Growing Threat Landscape
With the immense value of patient data and the life-critical nature of its systems, healthcare has become a prime focus for cyberattacks. In 2023, the industry faced data breach costs nearing $11 million per incident — nearly double that of the financial sector — highlighting the urgent need for stronger cybersecurity defenses.
Many IoMT devices were not designed with security in mind. Legacy equipment often lacks encryption, receives infrequent updates and operates on outdated software, making it a weak link in the cybersecurity chain. A single compromised device can allow attackers to access a hospital’s entire network, potentially disrupting patient care and exposing sensitive data.
Unique Challenges of IoMT Security
IoMT security presents distinct challenges compared to traditional IT infrastructure.
Device Diversity Complicates Standardization
IoMT ecosystems include various devices from different manufacturers, each with unique operating systems and communication protocols. This lack of uniformity makes applying centralized security policies or deploying blanket security updates difficult. IT teams must account for this variability when designing protective measures.
Limited Device Capabilities Restrict Traditional Defenses
Unlike standard IT endpoints, many medical devices have limited processing power, memory and storage. This means traditional cybersecurity tools — such as antivirus software or endpoint detection systems — cannot be deployed effectively. Security solutions must be lightweight and tailored for constrained environments.
Another often overlooked risk is the vulnerability of IoT-connected medical refrigeration units. These systems store temperature-sensitive supplies like vaccines, where precise temperature control is essential to preserve drug potency and patient safety. A cyberattack that disrupts monitoring or alarms could lead to spoiled inventory, health risks and regulatory violations. Securing these units is just as critical as protecting more traditional clinical devices.
Clinical and Regulatory Constraints Delay Updates
Medical devices are subject to stringent regulatory requirements, such as FDA approval or CE marking. As a result, even minor software changes must go through compliance checks, often delaying critical security patches. Additionally, taking devices offline for maintenance risks disrupting patient care and diagnostics.
Key Strategies for Securing IoMT
To mitigate these risks, healthcare organizations should implement a multi-layered security strategy tailored to IoMT environments.
Build a Real-Time Device Inventory and Segment the Network
A foundational step in securing IoMT is maintaining a dynamic, real-time inventory of all connected medical devices. Once identified, devices should be isolated into segmented networks based on function and risk level. Segmentation prevents lateral movement during a breach and limits access to sensitive systems.
Adopt a Zero Trust Approach to Device Access
A zero-trust security model — where every access request is verified regardless of origin — adds a critical layer of protection. Implementing role-based access controls, multi-factor authentication and continuous monitoring ensures that only authorized users and systems can communicate with connected medical devices.
Monitor Device Behavior With AI-Driven Analytics
Machine learning tools can help detect anomalies in device behavior that traditional security systems might miss. Sudden changes in data flow, communication patterns or device uptime can indicate potential threats. AI-powered monitoring enables real-time threat detection without taxing device resources.
Looking Ahead to a Secure Digital Foundation
As digital health continues to evolve, securing IoMT will be foundational to protecting patient safety and operational continuity. Proactive investments in cybersecurity, combined with cross-functional collaboration between IT, clinical and administrative teams, are essential to building a resilient healthcare ecosystem. In an era where uptime can be a matter of life or death, securing the IoMT is mission-critical.