The implications of cardiac device cybersecurity responsibilities and challenges faced by policymakers, manufacturers, and patients.

Abstract

Introduction: As digital health expands, reliance on digital endpoints is rapidly increasing to improve diagnostic accuracy and management in the healthcare field. Digital endpoints are beneficial to monitor how patient's clinical information is processed outside of a clinical setting.

Areas covered: Implications of cardiac digital endpoints play a role in allowing patients to track their clinical data outside of a clinical setting. Advances in cardiac digital endpoints involve advanced devices and implants, trackers, and artificial intelligence. We will explore further digital endpoints within cardiology and threats as well as security concerns for policies to focus on the maintenance of safe patient health data analysis, transmission, and processing.

Expert opinion: As digital endpoints evolve and expand, policymakers must ensure there is adequate cybersecurity surrounding them. We believe guidelines should be in place to make sure data is accessed solely on a secure connection and access to digital literacy for patients should be readily available.