How the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) Helps Combat Connected Health Security Threats? – CIO Applications

Hackers may use this same type of security flaw to gain access to a device and use it to cause harm or steal sensitive health information. During the device's lifetime, some of these same devices enable the patient to replace a device component or "consumable."

Fremont, CA: IoT networks are increasingly being used by the healthcare industry to safely connect a growing number of medical devices and equipment. In applications varying from hospital consignment inventory management to remotely controlling heart-rate monitors, insulin pumps, as well as other implantable devices using smartphones, these connected devices are transforming procedures and the continuum of care.

Device security is often overlooked in these and other Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) applications. Some solution providers make the dangerous assumption that security cannot be implemented cost-effectively. The industry is transitioning to a command-and-control model, utilizing commercial smartphones with built-in security features that are insufficient for safety-critical applications.

IoMT Threats and Opportunities

Unfortunately, cyberattacks or problems with IoMT integrity for connected implantable medical devices are becoming more common. In May of 2019, a Type 1 diabetes patient reprogrammed his insulin pump to customize his therapy and ended up in the hospital. He'd taken advantage of a security flaw in his FDA-approved, commercially available device, which, according to the FDA's safety warning, could put patients at risk if they didn't properly execute their own treatment customization.

Hackers may use this same type of security flaw to gain access to a device and use it to cause harm or steal sensitive health information. During the device's lifetime, some of these same devices enable the patient to replace a device component or "consumable." In terms of counterfeit substitution or integrity, the consumable itself presents a new threat.

Tracking of Asset

Hospital asset tracking, which ensures that equipment is always available and usable, is another popular application for IoMT solutions, and consignment inventory management is one of the most promising. Vendors are increasingly selling goods, equipment, and related consumables on consignment to hospitals, issuing invoices only when the items are used. Additionally, OEMs must ensure that consigned inventory meets OEM specifications for temperature, humidity, and other environmental factors before it is used in inpatient care.

From their receipt at the hospital to their use as well as restocking, all information about these items was previously manually entered. Adopting an IoMT solution for these processes reduces errors while increasing efficiency, but security is essential for maintaining the supply chain's integrity as well as all financial transactions.

See Also :-Top IoT Solution Companies

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How the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) Helps Combat Connected Health Security Threats? - CIO Applications

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