A Super Lawyer and resident of Ambler, Pennsylvania, Brad Rostolsky is the partner in charge of HIPAA and Health Privacy & Security practice at the firm of Reed Smith. In this role, Brad Rostolsky advises clients on HIPAA and health privacy law compliance, which has become especially critical in the age of wireless technology.
The convergence of technology and information analytics has led to increased opportunities in health care, especially with regard to wireless medical devices, including some pacemakers and automated insulin pumps. These wireless technologies have seen tremendous growth in the last decade. While they have enabled patients to live better, more comfortable lives, they have also opened doors to a new type of risk - cyber security. Many of these technologies receive commands wirelessly, thereby making them susceptible to cyber attacks.
Security experts advise that manufacturers, software developers, hospitals, and other healthcare providers must play a role in managing these security risks. Manufacturers and software developers should take steps to include safeguards in the devices. They will need to remain vigilant of potential cyber security risks and incorporate appropriate security features such as encryption and authentication to protect patients. Hospitals and network providers should also monitor their wireless networks to ensure they are protected from cyber attacks.
