As the CEO of a dental IT company with over two decades of experience in the field, I've witnessed a concerning trend that threatens the very foundation of our dental practices: the precarious state of patient data security. Despite advancements in technology and heightened awareness of cyber threats, dental practices continue to put patient data at risk, often unknowingly. In this article, I aim to shed light on the critical issues plaguing our industry and advocate for a proactive approach to cybersecurity.
A false sense of security
One of the most alarming realities in the dental industry is the prevalence of unreported cyber incidents. Despite several daily security incidents occurring within dental practices, many go unreported, leading to a false sense of security among practice owners and managers. In some cases, this lack of reporting is intentional, driven by a desire to avoid reputational damage. However, in many instances, practice owners are provided with poor guidance due to a lack of understanding of the severity of cyber threats. This ignorance perpetuates a dangerous cycle, leaving patient data vulnerable to exploitation. The potential consequences of these cyber incidents—such as reputational damage, financial loss, and legal implications—should not be underestimated.
Don’t cut corners with IT
A significant contributing factor to dental practices' vulnerability is their reliance on IT vendors that lack the resources to properly protect internal systems, let alone the practices they serve. While this is often not intentional, the dental industry's price-focused nature has driven down the economic ability of IT companies to invest in robust cybersecurity measures. Practices prioritize immediate problem-solving over long-term security, neglecting the critical behind-the-scenes safeguards necessary to protect patient data effectively.
Prioritize cybersecurity training
Human error remains the most significant cause of security incidents in dental practices, yet the majority of practice owners fail to prioritize regular cybersecurity training for their employees. While technical safeguards are essential, they can only go so far in mitigating risks. Without proper training, employees inadvertently become the weakest link in the security chain, unintentionally exposing patient data to potential breaches and compromise. By investing in comprehensive employee training, dental practices can empower their staff to be proactive in identifying and mitigating security risks, thereby significantly enhancing their overall cybersecurity posture.
Do your research when selecting an IT vendor
Many dental practices place blind trust in their vendors, assuming they diligently protect patient data. However, some vendors have been negligent in handling security, and internal incidents are often met with a lack of transparency. To safeguard patient data effectively, it is crucial for practices to ask the right questions when selecting vendors. Inquire about their cybersecurity incidents, describe their cybersecurity program, and identify which cybersecurity vendors they partner with. If a vendor hesitates to provide satisfactory answers, seeking alternatives to mitigate potential risks is imperative.
In the dental industry, there is a prevalence of self-proclaimed “experts” who may not possess the necessary expertise to provide adequate guidance on cybersecurity. Unfortunately, this misplaced trust in perceived experts can lead to improper guidance and increased vulnerability to cyber threats. Given the unique challenges, dental practices need to consider seeking outside expertise from cybersecurity professionals. While dentistry may be a small industry compared to others, the consequences of inadequate cybersecurity can be catastrophic, underscoring the importance of seeking the best possible guidance and protection for patient data.
Invest today to prevent disaster tomorrow
A blatant lack of action when provided guidance by IT vendors creates a significant security risk within dental practices. One typical example is the failure to replace outdated computers and servers running unsupported operating systems like Windows 7 and Windows Server 2012 (or older). These obsolete operating systems are no longer updated or patched when security vulnerabilities are discovered, leaving practices vulnerable. Additionally, practices often opt for cheaper router solutions without annual renewals, foregoing the investment in enterprise-grade security appliances that offer advanced security services, further exposing their systems to potential breaches.
Opting out of cybersecurity insurance presents another substantial concern for dental practices. The costs associated with managing a breach or incident can be staggering, and uninsured practices may resort to shortcuts or rely on ill-equipped IT vendors for guidance on resolution. Even with heavy investments in cybersecurity measures, the absence of cybersecurity insurance leaves practices vulnerable to financial losses and reputational damage in the event of a cyber incident. Practices must recognize cybersecurity insurance's importance and consider it an essential component of their overall cybersecurity strategy. Moreover, documenting investments in cybersecurity during the insurance application process can reduce rates, making it a prudent investment for safeguarding patient data and mitigating financial risks.
Protecting patient data is a responsibility
Protecting patient data is not just a legal or ethical obligation—it's a fundamental responsibility dental practices must prioritize. By acknowledging the vulnerabilities inherent in our industry, investing in robust cybersecurity measures, prioritizing employee training, scrutinizing vendor practices, and seeking outside expertise when necessary, we can collectively safeguard patient data and uphold the trust placed in us by our patients. Additionally, taking decisive action to address common security risks, such as replacing aged hardware and investing in enterprise-grade security solutions, and securing cybersecurity insurance coverage are essential steps in fortifying our defenses against cyber threats. The time for action is now. Let us heed this call to action and ensure that patient data remains secure in an increasingly digital world.
Editor's note: This article originally appeared in DE Weekend, the newsletter that will elevate your Sunday mornings with practical and innovative practice management and clinical content from experts across the field. Subscribe here.
