Rep. Houchin introduces measure to help cybersecurity at rural hospitals

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) – Congresswoman Erin Houchin (R-District 9) has introduced bipartisan legislation to strengthen cybersecurity at rural hospitals.

The Rural Hospital Cybersecurity Enhancement Act would direct the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) to develop a comprehensive rural hospital cybersecurity workforce strategy, expand cybersecurity training resources, and improve preparedness against growing cyber threats.

Cyberattacks against hospitals have become more frequent and more sophisticated which can put patient care, medical records, and critical healthcare infrastructure at risk. 

Rural hospitals are particularly vulnerable because they often lack the resources to recruit and retain dedicated cybersecurity professionals. 

"When a rural hospital is forced offline, patient care is put at risk. This bipartisan bill is a practical step toward giving rural providers the workforce, training, and tools they need to strengthen their cybersecurity and continue serving their communities,” Rep. Houchin said. 

Rep. Houchin introduced the measure alongside U.S. Representative Kim Schrier, M.D., (D-Washington). 

The Rural Hospital Cybersecurity Enhancement Act requires HHS to: 

• Develop a comprehensive rural hospital cybersecurity workforce development strategy that considers public-private partnerships, cybersecurity curricula, workforce training, and policy recommendations.  

  
  

• Make instructional materials available to help rural hospitals train staff on fundamental cybersecurity practices.  

  
  

• Provide annual updates to Congress on the implementation of the strategy and any related workforce development initiatives.