NHS to get biggest ever cyber security boost

The NHS will receive free-to-adopt, world class perimeter security services as NHS Digital signs contract with Accenture.

These new services will build on the current offer from the Data Security Centre so that NHS organisations will be able to better secure and manage all of the digital networks that they operate and use.  Expert security specialists within the NHS will now have an even broader view of cyber threats across the NHS, allowing them to spot and respond quickly to emerging problems, while reducing cyber risks. 

The deal has been signed with Accenture, who shall also be using technology provided by Palo Alto Networks and Imperva.

The contract was procured by NHS Digital, working with the National Cyber Security Centre and NHSX, and will provide hospital trusts and other care settings the chance to get free, leading-edge perimeter security features, including:

• next-generation firewall
• secure filtering for web content
• network intrusion detection and prevention capabilities
• data loss prevention
• secure DNS services

Rob Shaw, Deputy Chief Executive of NHS Digital, said: “This deal is great news for NHS organisations.  This is cutting-edge technology that will help keep patient information and NHS systems safe, at no cost to local organisations.

“For us, the more organisations that join, the better we will be able to see what is happening across the estate.

“This means that we will be able to monitor for threats more effectively, supporting the NHS to increase data security and helping to provide safer care for patients.”

Niamh McKenna, UK Health Lead at Accenture, said: “We are delighted to be supporting NHS Digital in this important journey. 

“Security threats are ever more present in our increasingly connected world so enabling the safe and secure use of information within and outside the NHS is of paramount importance.”

Story via NHS Digital