What do I need to know about cybersecurity as Chief of EMS Operations
Cybersecurity Essentials for EMS Chiefs
As the Chief of EMS, you're not only responsible for clinical and operational leadership—you’re also accountable for the protection of your agency’s digital infrastructure, sensitive data, and continuity of operations. Cybersecurity is now a fundamental component of EMS leadership and emergency preparedness.
Why Cybersecurity Matters for EMS
- Patient Safety: Disruptions from cyberattacks can delay dispatch, disable medical devices, or impact treatment.
- HIPAA Compliance: EMS handles protected health information (PHI); breaches can result in fines, legal action, and public distrust.
- Operational Continuity: Ransomware or system outages can paralyze CAD, ePCR, or vehicle tracking systems.
- Public Trust: Maintaining data privacy and operational reliability strengthens community confidence.
Top Cyber Risks to EMS
- Ransomware attacks encrypt data and demand payment.
- Phishing attempts target staff with malicious emails.
- Vulnerable medical and communication devices can be entry points.
- Data breaches from lost or misconfigured devices.
- Third-party vendor vulnerabilities (billing, ePCR, cloud storage).
Your Key Responsibilities
1. Governance:
- Establish a cybersecurity policy based on NIST or HIPAA standards.
- Integrate cyber risk into emergency preparedness.
2. Training & Awareness:
- Conduct annual staff training.
- Use simulated phishing to test awareness.
3. Technical Safeguards:
- Enforce strong passwords, MFA, and device encryption.
- Keep all software and systems updated.
- Use secure, HIPAA-compliant platforms.
4. Incident Preparedness:
- Develop and rehearse a cyber incident response plan.
- Maintain offline backups and communication methods.
5. Vendor Management:
- Evaluate vendor cybersecurity practices.
- Include cybersecurity and breach notification clauses in contracts.
Cybersecurity Quick Checklist
- [ ] Cyber incident response plan exists and is tested.
- [ ] HIPAA-compliant, updated ePCR platform.
- [ ] Staff trained on cybersecurity best practices.
- [ ] Backup communication methods available.
- [ ] Audit trails for system and device access.
- [ ] Cyber liability insurance coverage reviewed.
Check out our website at: https://www.emscyber360.com
Contact us at info@emscyber360.com