What is 405(d)

In response to the growing threats faced by the healthcare and public health sector, the United States Congress enacted the Cybersecurity Act in 2015. The Act mandated the creation of a more robust and secure infrastructure for the health sector to combat attacks on medical devices, ransomware, social engineering, and other cyber threats. The Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) took up this challenge and established the 405(d) initiative, a public-private partnership aimed at enhancing the cybersecurity posture of the healthcare sector.

The 405(d) Program: A Collaborative Approach

The 405(d) Program operates as a collaborative effort between the Health Sector Coordinating Council and the federal government. This initiative brings together federal and private partners in what is known as the "Task Group." This group collaborates to identify cybersecurity gaps and subsequently forms smaller teams to develop consensus-based guidelines, practices, and methodologies. The ultimate goal is to fortify the healthcare and public health sector against evolving cyber threats.

The 405(d) Program is dedicated to providing the healthcare and public health sector with impactful resources, products, and tools. These offerings aim to raise awareness, drive behavioral change, and strengthen the sector's cybersecurity posture against cyber threats. Key resources include the HICP and the Hospital Resiliency Landscape Analysis.

Key Initiatives and Resources

One of the most significant achievements of the 405(d) Program is the Health Industry Cybersecurity Practices Publication, commonly referred to as "HICP." This publication includes a main document and two technical volumes tailored for small and medium as well as large organizations. Additionally, there is a resource and templates document to aid in the implementation of cybersecurity measures.

The HICP serves as a blueprint for healthcare organizations, offering cost-effective ways to mitigate cybersecurity risks across different organizational sizes. The program also focuses on creating a more resilient community within the healthcare and public health sector.

Shared Responsibility in Cybersecurity

In an era where healthcare organizations are increasingly reliant on electronic data transmission through various platforms, cybersecurity has become a shared responsibility. Whether it's through mobile devices, cloud-based applications, or medical devices, public and private sector experts must work together to enhance cybersecurity awareness and develop essential tools.

Information security officers, healthcare practitioners, and executive personnel all play a crucial role in protecting patients' medical and personal digital data. Recognizing that cyber threats are continually evolving, the entire healthcare sector must unite to effectively combat these challenges. The 405(d) Program stands as a commitment from HHS to actively engage in this collaborative effort.

Learn More and Get Started

To delve deeper into protecting your patients from cyber threats, consult with the experts at TLD Systems for tailored guidance.