Cybersecurity Toolkit for Rural Hospitals and Clinics

Ransomware and cybercrime are growing threats to all healthcare facilities, big or small. Protecting a facility from cyber threats can be a daunting task, however, failure to do so can result in fees, fines, litigation, media stories, mistrust, and decreased market capture.

The updated Rural Cybersecurity Toolkit was created by the National Rural Health Resource Center (The Center), and supported by the Federal Office of Rural Health Policy (FORHP). The toolkit is organized into four steps to guide rural hospitals and clinics in developing and fostering a well-rounded cybersecurity program; 1) Awareness, 2) Assessment, 3) Implementation and remediation, and 4) Education. The Toolkit also includes resources from various governmental and non-profit organizations, as well as tools and checklists appropriate for all hospitals and clinics in rural settings.