Rubio, King colleagues protect US health system from hackers

Recent reports show a sharp increase in cybersecurity attacks on healthcare systems across the country, including the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). In 2023, approximately 133 million people had their health data compromised, including Medicare beneficiary data, Social Security numbers, and medical records. As a government agency tasked with keeping Americans' personal health information secure, HHS must be equipped to counter the latest hacking strategies.

It was introduced by U.S. Sens. Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), Angus King (I-Metropolitan) and their colleagues. Strengthening cybersecurity in medical law Require health services to conduct consistent assessments of their cybersecurity systems and report their findings to Congress.

• “Since the pandemic, we have seen an increase in the number of cyberattacks on our health care system. I am proud to introduce this bipartisan policy. Enhancing cybersecurity in health care law. This legislation is intended to reassure Americans by better protecting sensitive information and ensure peace of mind in a time of constant change. ” – Senator Rubio

• “Several of Maine's major health care providers have fallen victim to cyberattacks in recent years. This threat to America's critical infrastructure is real and can literally mean the difference between life and death. must take aggressive steps to strengthen cybersecurity in the medical and public health sectors. Bipartisan Strengthening cybersecurity in medical law This helps healthcare organizations ensure they have the resources to keep patient data safe. As the number of threats continues to grow, consistent assessment will prove to be a lifeline for the medical community treating family and friends. ” – Senator King

Sen. Thom Tillis (R-North Carolina) and Sen. Maggie Hassan (D-New Hampshire) are the bill's original co-sponsors.

• “Too many North Carolinians have experienced data breaches by malicious hackers, and this is especially concerning when it comes to sensitive health information. Americans should not have to worry about harmful cybersecurity attacks; This legislation ensures that personal health data held by the Department of Health and Human Services is adequately protected and protected from cybersecurity attacks.” – Senator Tillis