The Confidentiality Coalition, chaired by the Healthcare Leadership Council, submitted comments to the Senate Commerce Committee emphasizing the urgent need to strengthen cybersecurity protections across the healthcare sector as attacks continue to rise sharply, exposing millions of patients and driving significant financial and operational harm. Citing a 55% increase in cyberattacks and a 72% surge in ransomware during the early months of COVID-19, the Coalition underscores that these threats jeopardize not only data security but patient safety. The letter supports increased federal investment in the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), applauds recent congressional action allowing HHS to consider recognized cybersecurity practices when assessing HIPAA breach penalties, and encourages continued federal focus on education, prevention, and collaboration. The Coalition reaffirms its commitment to working with policymakers to advance strong, practical, and patient-centered cybersecurity strategies across healthcare.
