Rising Concerns Over AI and Cybersecurity in Healthcare for 2025
The healthcare sector is grappling with significant technological challenges as it advances into 2025. A recent report by ECRI and the Institute for Safe Medication Practices highlights two critical issues: insufficient governance of artificial intelligence (AI) and increasing cybersecurity threats.
While AI is transforming many aspects of healthcare, including pharmacy applications and diagnostic tools, the report warns that few organizations have established clear policies to govern its use. “Medical errors generated by AI could compromise patient safety and lead to misdiagnoses and inappropriate treatment decisions,” the report states. An example cited is the lack of adequate incident reporting systems at a federal level, which complicates tracking AI-related errors.
Challenges in AI Governance
Experts like Francisco Rodriguez-Campos emphasize the need for multidisciplinary committees to assess AI technologies and establish safety metrics. Currently, reports of AI-related incidents are scarce and often not linked directly to AI errors, making oversight difficult.
On the cybersecurity front, the report discloses alarming statistics: in 2022, 89% of healthcare organizations experienced cyberattacks, with 72% fearing ransomware threats. Additionally, over half of these organizations lack sufficient in-house cybersecurity expertise, exposing vulnerable patient data and disrupting care services.
“Cyber threats can take many forms, from social engineering to attacks on network-connected medical devices,”
the report explains. These breaches risk compromising access to medications and could have severe impacts on patient health outcomes.
Implications for Healthcare Providers
Experts advocate for the development of robust incident reporting systems and stronger governance frameworks. Without proper tracking and management, AI errors and cybersecurity breaches could undermine trust and patient safety in healthcare.
Looking Ahead
The report underscores the importance of proactive measures. Education, dedicated cybersecurity teams, and comprehensive policies are essential in mitigating these risks and ensuring the safe integration of technology in healthcare settings.
As technology continues to evolve, so too must the strategies to safeguard its use, ensuring that innovations result in safer, more efficient patient care. Healthcare providers are urged to prioritize governance and cybersecurity to face the challenges of 2025 and beyond.
