Cyber threats are relentless.
Experts identify 20,000 new vulnerabilities each year.[1] The need for better security is driving imaging practices to move to the cloud. In a recent Forrester study, 78% percent of respondents said improved security would push them to explore cloud-based PACS.[2]
As a VP of radiology recently shared, “Security is always a top concern, especially as it impacts patients.”[2]
Security no longer perceived as a cloud obstacle
Early on, cloud data seemed riskier than on-premises data. A wave of ransomware attacks shifted mindsets. Cloud options became much more desirable for securely managing and storing data.
Ransomware attacks exposed the weaknesses of on-premises data. Encryption models enhanced cloud security. What’s the key? Ensuring your data is encrypted in motion and at rest.
Lighten the security burden
“Security is always a concern, especially for an on premises PACS,” explained a manager of imaging technology.[2] “We don’t have enough involvement from IT. We’ll often find out we have unpatched software, but we learn too late.”
“One of my core interests in a cloud-based PACS is improving this security,” he continued.
Let a larger team with more expertise manage security for you. With cloud-based PACS, any discovered infrastructure weak spots can be more quickly remediated. Immediate security patching keeps your data more secure.
Choosing the right technology
Research has found that cloud-based PACS can have a significant impact on security. For example, the Forrester study found a 30-50% reduced risk of a PACS-related security breach with a cloud solution.[2]
Also consider which technology can deliver the biggest security improvements. Gartner rankings show that applications hosted on AWS deliver unrivaled security and compliance.[3]
Thinking about moving your PACS solution to the cloud? Learn how GE Healthcare’s cloud-based PACS[4] can help increase your organization’s resiliency against cyber threats.
[1] https://www.cve.org/About/Metrics#PublishedCVERecords
[2] A commissioned study conducted by Forrester Consulting on behalf of GE Healthcare, August 2022
[3] Rating based on using AWS as hosting provider. Gartner, Vendor Rating: Amazon, Ed Anderson, et al. May 2021
[4] Currently available in the U.S. only