Latest news with #IoMT
Mid East Info
10-08-2025
- Health
- Mid East Info
Platformization holds the key to shifting from treatment to prevention in healthcare - Middle East Business News and Information
Signature Story: Healthcare industry Spokesperson: Tarek Abbas, Senior Director of Technical Solutions for EMEA South at Palo Alto Networks The cybersecurity risks in the healthcare sector are truly unique. While technology is critical to delivering improved patient care, healthcare organisations in the Middle East and around the world face a trivector of challenges; a vast attack surface, often out-of-date security software and the pressure of regulation. As a result, the stakes for security teams in the sector couldn't be higher. Looking from an attacker's perspective, the Unit 42 2025 Global Incident Response Report found that 70% of the incidents that Unit 42 responded to last year occurred on three or more attack surfaces. With many of these threats increasingly powered by AI, defending healthcare providers and systems requires a comprehensive, simplified and sophisticated security posture. But what measures can be taken to tackle these challenges? Platformization is the key to organisations being able to identify ways to consolidate, integrate and simplify security functions and vendors to reduce complexity and cost, while improving overall levels and outcomes of security. Alongside a focus on early detection and prevention, platformization provides healthcare institutions with the capabilities to effectively predict and defend against cyber threats. Investment is vital to counter these threats. The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries are making concerted efforts to boost their digital defences. By 2030, the cyber threat intelligence market in the Middle East is set to reach upwards of $31 billion, according to the World Economic Forum. The focus on cyber investment in recent years has been partially fuelled in response to attacks. Key sectors in the UAE faced an average of 50,000 cyberattacks daily in 2024, according to the country's cybersecurity authority. Focusing on an AI-powered approach to security and therefore freeing staff resources to solve strategic challenges is critical to tackling healthcare's most prevalent cybersecurity issues. Challenge #1: A vast attack surface From complex networks to unpatched devices – healthcare providers are often an open target – and if they're hit, they will be hit quickly. Unit 42 found that the speed of cyberattacks is increasing with attackers now exfiltrating data three times faster than in 2021. Specific to healthcare, a key issue is that while it used to just be the hospital itself that needed to be secure, with increased digitalisation and a move to the cloud, there is an increasing array of medical records, diagnostic results and Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) technology to consider too. Looking at devices in particular – from ultrasounds to wearables and implantable devices – it is said that by 2026, more than 70% of medical devices will be connected digitally, increasing the attack surface significantly. The result is that devices are getting connected faster than they can be properly protected, creating an epidemic of exposed devices carrying critical healthcare data. This is significant as Palo Alto Networks' 2024 report on 'The State of OT Security' revealed the estimated average cost of a single breach remediation for a connected asset (OT/Internet of Things (IoT)) is between US$10,000 and US$50,000. Phishing remains the #1 entry point across industries. With AI making phishing campaigns scalable and harder to detect and defend against, healthcare has to tackle this and the ever-expanding attack surface. Challenge #2: Out of date software Not only is the number of healthcare devices creating complexity, but the lack of up-to-date security software within healthcare devices is a particular problem. The lifecycle of devices is long and often the operating systems are not updated and security patches not applied. For example, there are still frequent instances of scanners and Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) stations running on outdated software such as Windows 7 or Windows XP. The reality is that updating devices is complex, and too often dependent on the manufacturer of the device. For example, in a case where there were 100 imaging devices with a vulnerability, the manufacturers were required to connect to the device by using a fixed password, in order to do maintenance. However, with that fixed password publicly available in the device user guide, anyone within the hospital network could extract the files and access them. This is a common issue and it makes the devices very easy to exploit. From air filtration systems to the TVs in patient rooms, security policies are needed which can help to create a barrier against cyber attacks, before they even get in. Challenge #3: Regulation As in every industry today, those within healthcare have their eye on how incoming legislation may change compliance requirements. One area likely to receive increased regulatory attention is medical devices – a trend which will be especially pertinent for manufacturers. For example, the UAE introduced the Abu Dhabi Healthcare Information and Cyber Security Standard (ADHICS) in 2024. The legislation is designed to provide a comprehensive guide to healthcare entities and professionals for the regulation of the healthcare data in Abu Dhabi. The standard sets high levels of privacy and security of patients' data in line with international standards. In the context of regulation being developed globally, naturally, there are now dedicated companies that focus on digital public infrastructure (DPI), helping healthcare providers stay compliant with directives. But whilst these forms of specialised expertise are always important, the additional tools they require can add another layer of complexity to an organisation's overall security posture. Should the amount of security products in use become excessive, healthcare providers could not only encounter increased difficulties in guarding against cyber risks, but also managing compliance. Lastly, at an operational level, one of the fundamental issues regarding compliance for healthcare providers centres on cost. Whilst new regulations are imposed to protect organisations and their stakeholders, they also incur an added expense which can prove to be a massive headache for providers with restricted budgets. The solution: The healthcare industry is increasingly putting a focus on the prevention of disease as opposed to solely focusing on treatment, and security approaches should mirror this. It starts with an assessment. This could mean an organisation doing a tabletop exercise to gauge their response to a real-world cybersecurity incident. It could also involve creating a clear cartography of data and assets, making sure CISOs know how the organisation's devices are used, by who, how and why. But whilst these measures are beneficial for keeping up with adversaries, the priority for organisations should be geared towards staying one step ahead. This makes AI an essential component of cyber defense strategies, given its ability to proactively gather threat intelligence, detect incoming threats and most notably, guard against AI-based attacks – which have become increasingly prevalent in recent years. This also heightens the importance of recruiting personnel with the skillset to optimise and effectively manage the full benefits of AI-based defence systems. Equally, for organisations that have undertaken cyber risk assessments, what we often see come to light is a high number of security gaps from having too many disparate solutions. By focusing on identifying ways to consolidate, integrate and simplify security functions, organisations can improve overall levels of security without adding to the time needed to manage multiple providers. Considering the pressure on security teams today, a platformed approach will not only deliver a cutting-edge and state of the art, AI-powered security posture, but they'll be better able to allocate staff resources within security teams to strategic priorities for the business. Of course, budget is needed to do this, rather than the task continuing to be for security teams to do more with less. That said, through consolidation, every dollar spent will go that bit further.
Forbes
30-07-2025
- Health
- Forbes
How AI Is Transforming Healthcare In 2025
Ashish Sukhadeve, Founder and CEO of Analytics Insight, providing organizations with strategic insights on disruptive technologies. In terms of its transformative effect, AI is doing for healthcare what electricity did for the industry. According to Fortune Business Insights, the global AI healthcare market was valued at $29.01 billion in 2024, and it's projected to grow to $504.17 billion by 2032. This represents a massive CAGR of 44%. For healthcare leaders, the time to act is now; AI is rapidly advancing areas such as illness prevention, diagnostics and drug discovery, and it has the potential to significantly reduce administrative burdens. Here are just some of the areas to follow when it comes to AI in the sector: Preventing Illness I think one of AI's most valuable contributions is its ability to prevent illness. There are many wearables, AI health apps and the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) available now. These consumer applications enable individuals to take charge of their own health. They allow users to monitor everything from heart rates to sleep cycles, turning passive patients into proactive participants. Doctors also benefit. AI helps them understand a patient's daily habits, risks and medical history. This improves their ability to offer personalized care. I see prevention, powered by data, as becoming the new normal. Diagnosis AI also excels in medical imaging and diagnostics. At Massachusetts General Hospital and MIT, AI detected lung nodules with 94% accuracy, outperforming radiologists, who achieved 65%. Similar results have been found for breast cancer detection. According to the Harvard School of Public Health, AI in diagnostics may reduce treatment costs by 50% and improve outcomes by 40%. AI is not just reducing medical errors; it is reducing medical anxiety. I believe with AI improving both accuracy and outcomes, healthcare leaders must treat diagnostics not as a back-office upgrade, but as a frontline opportunity for transformation. Drug Discovery Bringing a drug to market can take over 10 years and cost $172 million on average. Only 13.8% of compounds make it to approval. AI can help reduce this timeline dramatically. Systems like IBM Watson can process vast amounts of medical journals and case studies. DeepMind uses neural networks to solve complex health problems with learning algorithms. AstraZeneca's AI, trained on data from 500,000 people, can now predict diseases like Alzheimer's before symptoms appear. These tools can be used not only to improve timelines but also to save countless lives. Caring For The Aging Population As populations age, the demand for elder care rises. AI-powered robots are easing this burden, even when it comes to things like laundry. They are increasingly used to assist in physical therapy, provide companionship and reduce hospital visits. These machines can now hold conversations that stimulate mental engagement in older adults. The lesson is clear: Embracing AI not only addresses labor shortages but also opens new paths to compassionate, scalable elder care. Administration Support AI is improving what patients don't see, the administration. Microsoft's Dragon Copilot can create real-time notes during clinical consultations. Germany's Elea AI reports that it can cut testing and diagnosis from "weeks to hours." These and many other tools are giving doctors more time focusing on patient care. These tools are also helping save time when it comes to clinical decision making, and as evidenced by the Alzheimer's prediction example, AI increasingly supports early warnings. It can now identify high-risk patients using data patterns, including genetic and lifestyle factors. Tools like ChatRWD are replacing and outperforming generic AI models. Conclusion AI is not replacing doctors but empowering them. It now impacts every layer of healthcare, from diagnosis to prevention, from robots to research. Patients can be better informed. Doctors are better equipped. Systems are more efficient. In 2025, I believe the most important medical tool is not a scalpel; it's data, and AI is the surgeon. The future of healthcare is not waiting on some distant horizon; it's already here.
International Business Times
17-07-2025
- Health
- International Business Times
Digital Security Expert Kayode AyinOluwa Helps Shape Future of AI Safety Protocols in Healthcare
Healthcare systems worldwide grapple with artificial intelligence tools promising medical breakthroughs, which also expose patient data to escalating risks. Kayode AyinOluwa, a cybersecurity specialist with over a decade of experience, addresses these challenges by identifying risks others miss. His work spans roles at financial institutions and cybersecurity firms, making him a critical voice in safeguarding AI-driven healthcare technologies. Anticipating Tomorrow's Threats Today Kayode AyinOluwa's foresight is grounded in examining underexplored patterns. Health data breaches affected millions of patients worldwide in 2023, exposing gaps in current safeguards. While many focused on immediate fixes, he targeted systemic weaknesses: many Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) devices still rely on legacy systems that lack timely security updates. Predictive strategies he champions merge technical discipline with practical specific projects at RBC and AO Partners are not documented in publicly available sources, industry-wide efforts to combat fraud through AI-powered verification systems align with new developments in financial and healthcare cybersecurity. Connecting Digital and Physical Security Gaps Medical devices, from insulin pumps to MRI machines, connect to networks, creating entry points for attackers. Recent assessments indicate that a vast majority of healthcare networks remain susceptible to cyberattacks due to aging infrastructure. Layered defenses he advocates merge hardware safeguards with AI monitoring. Blockchain-based audit trails and homomorphic encryption, tested across sectors, create tamper-proof logs and enable secure data tactics are increasingly adopted as AI diagnostics expand. Creating a Safer Path Through Collaboration Kayode AyinOluwa's blueprint transcends code. He stresses that clinics, insurers, and tech firms must share threat data to outpace adversaries. Ransomware incidents have significantly disrupted hospital operations in recent years, with slow communication and disjointed systems often compounding the impact. Cooperation frameworks aligned with global standards, such as ISO 27001 certification, are critical for hardening systems against attacks. Training programs for hospital staff and cross-industry task forces underpin modern defense strategies. [This section could benefit from examples of your direct involvement in building or consulting on such collaboration programs or frameworks.]
Hindustan Times
04-07-2025
- Business
- Hindustan Times
Yeida instructs plot owners to expedite work on their units
GREATER NOIDA: The Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (Yeida) has asked plot owners in the Medical Device Park to submit a 'work plan' about completing the building before they initiate operations, officials said on Thursday. Yeida, the CEO said, has sought a flow chart from the plot owners specifying the exact date of start of work at the site, date, when they will build the plinth area. (Sunil Ghosh/HT Archives) The instructions to plot owners came during a site inspection by Yeida chief executive officer RK Singh along with the staff in Sector 28. The park spread over 350-acre is located in this sector, and is near the upcoming Noida International Airport. Notably, the central government has directed Yeida to complete the common facilities work inside this project by January-end, 2026, said officials, adding that the project is funded by Uttar Pradesh, and the central government to boost manufacturing of the medical device equipment in this region since the project can create employment. 'We have already completed at least 85% of the basic civic amenities including roads, drainage, sewer lines, parks and electricity among other work, and the remaining work will be completed at the earliest, said Yeida chief executive officer (CEO) RK Singh. He said the common scientific facilities (CSFs) housing 13 specialised labs, including IoMT (internet of medical things) and AI/ML(artificial intelligence and machine learning) computing, sensor testing, digital display zones, electronic assembly, common tooling rooms, bio-material testing, and a gamma irradiation zone (a designated area where materials are exposed to gamma radiation, typically for sterilisation, modification of material properties, or research purposes) have already been built as per the Centre's directions so that the manufacturers can use the same. 'Now, the key aspect is that the owners of these plots first build premises, and then start operations as per the timelines without any delay,' the CEO added. Yeida, the CEO said, has sought a flow chart from the plot owners specifying the exact date of start of work at the site, date, when they will build the plinth area, time of making roof, and then when they will seek completion certificate. 'We want them to build the buildings at the earliest and then start operations so that they can use the common scientific facilities already created in this mega project. If they do not build projects and start operations, the common facilities will remain unused,' he added. The project, with an estimated cost of ₹440 crore, has so far seen allotment of 89 plots to different firms. To be sure, more than 200 plots are planned in the park. Among the 89 companies allotted plots, one will produce cancer care equipment, 13 will focus on radiology devices, 31 will manufacture anaesthesia equipment, 23 will make implants, and 21 will produce in-vitro diagnostic (IVD) products. Of the total project cost, ₹100 crore has been provided by the Centre. This amount has been used to construct an administrative building — now complete—and to develop seven common scientific facilities that house 13 laboratories.
Time Business News
12-06-2025
- Health
- Time Business News
Internet of Medical Things Market Driving Innovation and Sustainability in 2025
The Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) encompasses a network of medical devices and applications that interface with healthcare information technology systems via online networks. This innovative framework relies on medical devices equipped with Wi-Fi capabilities, facilitating machine-to-machine communication that underpins the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) ecosystem. Often referred to as the Internet of Things (IoT) in the healthcare sector, IoMT enables secure, wireless communication between remote devices over the Internet, thereby allowing for swift and adaptable analysis of medical data. Notable applications of IoMT include remote patient monitoring (RPM) for individuals with chronic illnesses, tracking medication orders, monitoring the location of hospitalized patients, gathering data from wearable health devices, and connecting ambulances to healthcare professionals during transit. These devices typically link to cloud platforms where the collected data is stored and analyzed, enhancing the overall efficiency of healthcare delivery. The utilization of IoMT for remote patient monitoring is commonly associated with telemedicine, a practice that alleviates the need for patients to visit hospitals or clinics for medical inquiries or changes in their health status, thus promoting convenience and accessibility in healthcare. Key Growth Drivers and Emerging Opportunities in the Market · The demand for remote patient monitoring is on the rise, driven primarily by an aging population and the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. As healthcare systems face the challenge of providing continuous care outside traditional hospital settings, the need for effective monitoring solutions has become more critical. · Significant advancements in connectivity technologies, including the expansion of 5G networks, Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE), and Narrowband Internet of Things (NB-IoT), have greatly improved the ability to transmit data in real-time. These technologies facilitate more reliable and low-latency communication, which is essential for the optimal performance of Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) devices. · The proliferation of wearable and implantable devices, such as smartwatches, ECG monitors, insulin pumps, and biosensors, is transforming the landscape of health monitoring. These devices are becoming increasingly prevalent due to advancements in sensor accuracy and miniaturization, which enhance their diagnostic and monitoring capabilities. As these technologies become more integrated into daily life, they empower patients to take an active role in managing their health, while also providing healthcare professionals with valuable data for informed decision-making. · The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and big data analytics into healthcare is revolutionizing the way data from IoMT devices is utilized. Machine learning algorithms can analyze vast amounts of data to generate predictive insights, enabling early diagnosis and personalized treatment plans. This data-driven approach not only improves clinical outcomes but also enhances the overall efficiency of healthcare delivery, allowing for more tailored interventions that meet individual patient needs. · Government and regulatory support play a crucial role in the advancement of digital health and remote care services. Initiatives aimed at transforming healthcare through technology are being implemented, with favorable policies emerging in regions such as the United States, where the FDA's Digital Health Innovation Action Plan is paving the way for innovation, and the European Union, which is advancing its Medical Device Regulation (MDR). These supportive frameworks encourage the development and adoption of remote monitoring solutions, fostering a more connected and efficient healthcare ecosystem. The Internet of Medical Things and the FDA The Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) is closely governed by FDA regulations, particularly 21 CFR Part 820—also known as the Quality System Regulation (QSR). This regulation outlines the essential requirements for the design, manufacturing, packaging, labeling, storage, installation, and servicing of finished medical devices intended for human use. As IoMT devices depend heavily on real-time data transmission and connectivity, adherence to these standards is critical to ensure their safety, effectiveness, and reliability. The integration of software and network capabilities into these devices demands strong cybersecurity protocols and ongoing monitoring to safeguard patient data and ensure system integrity. Compliance with 21 CFR Part 820 helps ensure that IoMT products uphold consistent quality throughout their lifecycle, reinforcing both regulatory confidence and user trust in these cutting-edge medical technologies. Challenges of IoMT Adoption · Data Security and Privacy: IoMT devices handle large volumes of sensitive health data, making them prime targets for cyberattacks. Ensuring secure data transmission, strong encryption, and compliance with regulations like HIPAA is essential to protect patient privacy and system integrity. · Interoperability: Many IoMT devices operate on different standards and protocols, leading to poor integration. This lack of interoperability limits the ability to create connected healthcare systems where devices communicate and share data efficiently. · Data Management: IoMT generates vast amounts of data that must be stored, processed, and analyzed. Managing this data effectively requires systems that ensure accuracy, consistency, and relevance while avoiding overload. · Cost and Infrastructure: High initial costs for IoMT deployment, including device installation and infrastructure upgrades, can be prohibitive—especially for smaller or underfunded providers. Ongoing maintenance adds to the long-term expense. · Regulatory Compliance: IoMT devices must meet various regulatory standards, which can differ by region. Keeping up with these evolving requirements while maintaining compliance is a complex and ongoing challenge for developers and providers. Competitive Landscape and Key Players The Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) market is characterized by its rapid evolution and intense competition, featuring a blend of established medical device companies, technology innovators, and health IT service providers. Firms are vying for market share through innovative solutions, strategic alliances, and advancements in areas such as connectivity, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and data analytics. Common strategies include mergers and acquisitions, as well as partnerships with healthcare organizations and technology firms, aimed at enhancing product offerings and expanding global presence. The market's growth is fueled by a rising demand for remote patient monitoring, telemedicine, and real-time health data, with industry players prioritizing compliance with data privacy regulations and seamless integration with electronic health records. Recent Developments in the market · In June 2024, Apple Inc. unveiled iOS 18 for the iPhone, enhancing the device's capabilities, security, and intelligence. The Health App received a significant update, particularly with the revamped Medical ID feature, which now allows first responders to access vital information more efficiently during emergencies. Additionally, the app has been upgraded to better assist individuals throughout pregnancy, providing tailored insights and recommendations based on both physical and mental health changes. · GE Healthcare, a prominent innovator in global medical technology, diagnostics, and digital solutions, announced on September 5, 2022, the introduction of its first 'Made in India' AI-powered Cath lab, the Optima IGS 320, aimed at enhancing cardiac care across the country. · In May 2023, Bonatra, a healthtech startup, announced its acquisition of MyAva, a company specializing in women's health and wellness. This strategic move is intended to enhance Bonatra's holistic healthcare offerings, positioning the company as a comprehensive platform for managing chronic health conditions. Future Outlook The Internet of Medical Things (IoMT) market is poised for significant growth, fueled by an increasing need for remote patient monitoring, tailored healthcare solutions, and real-time data analytics. Innovations in artificial intelligence, 5G technology, and cloud computing are set to enhance the functionality of IoMT devices, making them smarter, more interoperable, and secure. As healthcare systems globally transition to value-based care, IoMT will be instrumental in improving patient outcomes while simultaneously lowering costs. The seamless integration of IoMT with electronic health records, telemedicine services, and predictive analytics will become more prevalent. Nevertheless, the market's expansion will hinge on addressing challenges such as cybersecurity threats, regulatory hurdles, and data integration issues. With robust investments from both the technology and healthcare sectors, the IoMT market is anticipated to grow significantly, reshaping the landscape of digital health in both developed and emerging markets. About Author: HTF Market Intelligence Consulting is uniquely positioned to empower and inspire with research and consulting services to empower businesses with growth strategies, by offering services with extraordinary depth and breadth of thought leadership, research, tools, events, and experience that assist in decision-making. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
