ICT Insight with Institute of ICT Professionals: Fortifying healthcare against cyber threats: an urgent call to action

By  Abubakari Saddiq ADAMS

Ghana’s healthcare sector is undergoing a significant digital transformation, integrating technologies such as electronic health records (EHRs), telemedicine, and interconnected medical devices to enhance patient care and operational efficiency.

This shift towards digitalization aims to bridge the equity gap and increase access to quality healthcare services across the nation. Notably, the government’s eHealth strategy, launched in July 2010, has been pivotal in promoting these advancements.

However, as healthcare systems become increasingly digitized, they also become more susceptible to cyber threats. The healthcare industry is particularly vulnerable due to the high value of patient data and the critical nature of medical services. Cyberattacks can compromise patient safety, disrupt hospital operations, and lead to significant financial losses.

Recent global incidents underscore the devastating impact of cyberattacks on healthcare systems. For instance, in February 2025, Genea, a major IVF and fertility services provider in Australia, experienced a cyberattack by the Termite ransomware group. This breach led to the exposure of sensitive patient information on the dark web, including personal details, medical histories, and test results.

Similarly, Alder Hey Children’s Hospital in Liverpool faced a potential data breach in November 2024 after ransomware claims by the INC Ransom group. The group alleged the theft and publication of sensitive data, including patient records and donor information.

These incidents highlight the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity measures within Ghana’s health infrastructure to protect sensitive patient data and ensure the continuity of essential medical services.

The Escalating Threat Landscape

Healthcare systems worldwide have become prime targets for cybercriminals due to the high value of patient data and the critical nature of medical services. In 2021, Ireland’s Health Service Executive (HSE) suffered a ransomware attack that disrupted hospital operations nationwide, leading to appointment cancellations and a reversion to paper-based records. Such incidents highlight the potential vulnerabilities within Ghana’s healthcare system if proactive cybersecurity measures are not implemented.

Key Vulnerabilities in Ghana’s Healthcare Information Systems

Ghanaian healthcare institutions face several specific vulnerabilities that could compromise patient data and disrupt services:

1. Phishing Attacks: Cybercriminals often use deceptive emails to trick healthcare employees into revealing sensitive information or installing malicious software. A study focusing on the University of Ghana Medical Centre highlighted phishing as a prevalent threat, emphasizing the need for staff education and robust email security protocols.
2. Ransomware: Malicious software that encrypts hospital data, rendering systems inoperable until a ransom is paid. The same study on the University of Ghana Medical Centre identified ransomware as a significant concern, potentially crippling hospital operations and jeopardizing patient care.
3. Insider Threats: Unauthorized access or data breaches caused by employees, whether intentional or accidental. The Ghana Police Service should recognize the importance of addressing insider threats, providing specialized training to tackle such issues effectively.

Legislative Frameworks Supporting Cybersecurity

Ghana has established robust legal structures to combat cyber threats, notably:

• Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038): This act provides a comprehensive framework for the protection of critical information infrastructure, including healthcare systems. It mandates the implementation of stringent security measures and the reporting of cybersecurity incidents.
• Data Protection Act, 2012 (Act 843): This legislation emphasizes the protection of personal data, requiring healthcare institutions to adopt appropriate technical and organizational measures to prevent data breaches and ensure patient confidentiality.

Strategic Measures for Enhancing Cybersecurity

To fortify Ghana’s healthcare sector against cyber threats, the following strategies are essential:

• Comprehensive Staff Training: Regular cybersecurity awareness programs are crucial. Educating healthcare workers about recognizing phishing attempts and adhering to security protocols can significantly reduce the risk of breaches.
• Regular System Audits and Updates: Conducting frequent security audits and ensuring that all software and systems are up-to-date with the latest patches can mitigate vulnerabilities.
• Implementation of Advanced Security Technologies: Adopting solutions such as intrusion detection systems, data encryption, and multi-factor authentication can enhance the security posture of healthcare institutions.
• Development of Incident Response Plans: Establishing clear protocols for responding to cyber incidents can minimize damage and facilitate swift recovery.

Collaborative Efforts and Future Outlook

Addressing cybersecurity challenges in healthcare requires a collaborative approach involving government agencies, healthcare providers, and cybersecurity experts. The Ghana government has demonstrated commitment through initiatives by the Cyber Security Authority and the Joint Cybersecurity Committee, fostering a multi-stakeholder approach to national cybersecurity.

As digital integration in healthcare continues to advance, prioritizing cybersecurity is not merely a technical necessity but a critical component of patient safety and trust. Proactive measures today will ensure that Ghana’s healthcare system remains resilient against the evolving landscape of cyber threats.

Conclusion

As Ghana’s healthcare sector continues its digital evolution, the integration of technologies such as electronic health records (EHRs), telemedicine, and interconnected medical devices has become increasingly prevalent. While these advancements offer significant benefits in terms of patient care and operational efficiency, they also introduce new vulnerabilities to cyber threats. The recent global surge in cyberattacks targeting healthcare systems underscores the critical need for robust cybersecurity measures within Ghana’s health infrastructure.

To address these challenges, Ghana has implemented key legislative frameworks, notably the Cybersecurity Act, 2020 (Act 1038), and the Data Protection Act, 2012 (Act 843). These acts mandate stringent security protocols, ensuring that healthcare organizations adopt comprehensive measures to safeguard sensitive patient data and maintain trust. The Cybersecurity Act focuses on protecting critical information infrastructure and establishing the Cybersecurity Authority to oversee and enforce policies, while the Data Protection Act emphasizes the protection of personal data through appropriate technical and organizational measures.

However, legislation alone is not sufficient. Healthcare organizations must proactively implement advanced security technologies, conduct regular system audits, and provide continuous staff training to recognize and mitigate potential threats. Collaborative efforts among government agencies, healthcare providers, and cybersecurity experts are essential to create a resilient healthcare system capable of withstanding the evolving landscape of cyber threats.

As digital innovation propels Ghana’s healthcare sector forward, prioritizing cybersecurity is imperative to protect patient information, ensure operational continuity, and maintain public trust. By adhering to established legislative frameworks and adopting proactive security measures, Ghana can fortify its healthcare infrastructure against cyber threats, ensuring the safety and well-being of its citizens in the digital age.

The author is  a Business IT & IT Legal Consultant with a focus on IT Governance and Cybersecurity | Member, IIPGH

For comments, call 233246173369/ 233504634180

Email [email protected].

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