FDA, DHS ink cooperative medtech cybersecurity agreement

The FDA said yesterday that it is partnering with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security seeking to jointly improve cybersecurity in medical devices. The two agencies inked a memorandum of agreement looking to implement a new framework that will improve coordination and cooperation between the two bodies, according to the release. Through the agreement, both agencies will look to share information and coordinate on potential or confirmed medical device cybersecurity vulnerabilities and threats in hopes that the they will be better equipped to handle such threats to patient safety in a timely manner, according to the release. “As innovation in medical devices advances and more devices are connected to hospital networks or to other devices, ensuring that devices are adequately protected against cyber intrusions is paramount to protecting patients. The FDA has been proactive in developing a robust program to address medical device cybersecurity concerns. But we also know that securing medical devices from cybersecurity threats cannot be achieved by one government agency alone. Every stakeholder has a unique role to play in addressing these modern challenges. That’s why this announcement is so important. Our strengthened partnership with DHS will help our two agencies share information and better collaborate to stay a step ahead of constantly evolving medical device cybersecurity vulnerabilities and assist the health care sector in being well positioned to proactively r...
Source: Mass Device - Category: Medical Devices Authors: Tags: Featured Food & Drug Administration (FDA) Cybersecurity Dept. of Homeland Security Source Type: news