AXREM is the UK trade association representing the interests of suppliers of diagnostic medical imaging, radiotherapy, healthcare IT and care equipment including patient monitoring in the UK.
The group is comprised of most of the industry supply companies.
AXREM members supply the majority of diagnostic medical imaging and radiotherapy equipment installed in UK hospitals.
In doing so, member companies and their employees work side by side with a wide range of healthcare professionals in delivering healthcare to patients using these technologies.
Members therefore have unique knowledge, experience and insight into the workflow and challenges faced by healthcare professionals on a day-to-day basis, which enables AXREM to develop and offer innovative solutions to improve the speed and quality of patient care.
Cyber security is one of AXREM’s key strategic priorities as the healthcare IT sector, with its complex digital infrastructure and critical service nature, stands as a prime target in the evolving cyber threat landscape, offering numerous entry points for exploitation by malicious actors.
This position paper aims to address the critical cyber security challenges in UK healthcare, enhancing awareness and bolstering strategic continuity planning across healthcare organisations.
AXREM advocates for a holistic national cyber security strategy that includes government collaboration, partnerships with the private sector, and strong campaigns to increase public awareness.
Sally Edgington, AXREM chief executive officer said upon the paper being published: “Our members have produced this informative paper using their expertise to highlight the concerns they have.
“Never before has the threat of a cyber-attack been so high, so we must all work together to ensure we assist the government and NHS in minimising the risks of an attack.
“In the event of a cyber-attack we must work together to ensure patients can continue to be treated and their personal information is protected.”
AXREM recently welcomed the announcement of a Cyber Security and Resilience Bill in the Kings speech.
This will expand the remit of the existing regulation, putting regulators on a stronger footing and increasing reporting requirements to build a better picture in government of cyber threats.
The bill will strengthen the UK’s cyber defences, ensuring that critical infrastructure and the digital services that companies rely on are secure.
With the recent cyber-attack on the NHS this is very timely and much needed. In response to the attack, NHS England London declared a regional incident and continues to coordinate work across affected services, as well as with neighbouring providers and national partners to manage disruption.
