The intersection of IoT (Internet of Things) and OT (Operational Technology) in healthcare has become a focal point in securing critical infrastructure. With the industry accounting for 9% of global GDP and integrating thousands of devices, from bedside monitors to surgical robots, the stakes couldn’t be higher. The journey from isolated systems to hyper-connected healthcare environments has unlocked unparalleled efficiency and innovation. Yet, it has also introduced unprecedented security risks.

The Past: A Patchwork of Security Measures

In the early days of IoT, securing devices was often an afterthought. Healthcare systems relied on isolated networks and manual processes. Anthony Moffa from PTC noted, “The assumption was often that security was baked into the process, but it wasn’t the number one priority.” This approach left room for vulnerabilities. High-profile ransomware attacks, like the WannaCry incident in 2017, demonstrated the devastating consequences of compromised medical devices, including interruptions to patient care.

The Present: Navigating Complexity

Today’s healthcare environments are more connected than ever. Hospitals manage devices that communicate across networks, producing data vital for patient care and operational efficiency. However, this connectivity creates fertile ground for cyber threats. A study by IBM and Verizon found that it takes an average of 328 days to detect and contain a breach, with human error playing a role in 95% of security incidents.

Anthony Moffa highlighted the critical role of a secure infrastructure: “We’re in a much better position now with technologies like Device Authority’s KeyScaler, which provides unique device identification and mutual authentication. This ensures that only the intended devices can connect and communicate securely.”

The shift to integrated systems also presents opportunities. Connected devices can now be monitored remotely, reducing downtime and enabling proactive maintenance. For instance, IoT-enabled diagnostic tools can improve first-time fix rates from 70% to over 90%, significantly enhancing operational efficiency.

The Future: A Blueprint for Resilience

Looking ahead, the focus is on balancing connectivity with robust cybersecurity measures. Key trends shaping the future include:

1. Proactive Threat Mitigation: Technologies like AI-powered anomaly detection and blockchain are paving the way for real-time threat response.
2. Zero-Trust Architecture: Emphasising “never trust, always verify” principles will be critical for ensuring that every device, user, and network is continuously authenticated and monitored.
3. Sustainability in IoT: Beyond security, the healthcare industry is also eyeing sustainable practices. As Moffa noted, optimising service delivery not only improves operational efficiency but also reduces environmental impact, such as cutting unnecessary field visits for device updates.

Healthcare IoT Security: By Numbers

• 56% of OEMs currently have IoT programs in place, leaving a significant 44% as late adopters – IoT Business News
• Ransomware attacks on healthcare organisations rose by 94% in 2021, according to Cybersecurity Ventures.
• Remote monitoring solutions can reduce maintenance costs by 20-30%, while improving device uptime and patient care outcomes – Connect America

Conclusion

The convergence of IoT/OT in healthcare offers immense potential, but it demands a strategic focus on security. As Moffa aptly put it, “We want this to be easier for people to do—shifting IoT deployments from 10 months to 10 weeks or even 10 days.” This ambitious vision underscores the urgency of building secure, scalable, and sustainable healthcare ecosystems.

For healthcare providers and OEMs still hesitant to adopt IoT solutions, the message is clear: the time to act is now. By embracing innovative technologies and prioritising security, the industry can ensure a resilient future, where connected devices are not a liability but an asset.

Want to dive deeper into the challenges and opportunities of IoT/OT security in healthcare? Watch the full webinar, IoT and AI in Healthcare: A Prescription for Innovation, featuring insights from Anthony Moffa of PTC. Discover how cutting-edge technologies are shaping the future of connected healthcare and learn actionable strategies to enhance your organization’s security and efficiency.

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