The healthcare and BioTech industries are witnessing a significant transformation with the integration of SaaS technology and artificial intelligence (AI) into patient care, drug development, and health and wellness practices. AI now plays a crucial role in processing massive datasets of biological and chemical information to identify potential drug candidates, while machine learning algorithms analyze diverse data sources to predict the efficacy and safety of new compounds. However, despite the numerous benefits that GenAI tools offer in terms of boosting productivity and driving outcomes across all levels of healthcare organizations, there is a growing sense of caution regarding the potential risks associated with their use.
The traditional IT landscape, where IT departments had full control over software procurement and deployment, has undergone a significant shift with the rise of SaaS (Software as a Service) applications. While core SaaS applications generally undergo formal purchase and security review processes, the adoption of many SaaS tools is now being driven by individual employees themselves. This trend, known as shadow IT, poses a major challenge as it reduces visibility for IT departments into the applications being used, how they are being used, and by whom. This lack of oversight increases the risk of data breaches, as unvetted applications may not meet the organization’s security standards or regulatory requirements, leading to potential vulnerabilities in the system.
The adoption of each new SaaS application further expands an organization’s attack surface, increasing identity risks as each account becomes a potential target for cybercriminals seeking unauthorized access to corporate resources. Recent high-profile breaches have underscored the critical importance of protecting and securing identities within healthcare and BioTech organizations to prevent costly security incidents.
To address these evolving challenges, healthcare and BioTech organizations are turning to SaaS Identity Risk Management (SIRM) as a more modern approach to securing their IT ecosystems. SIRM focuses on enhancing visibility, control, and security compliance across all applications used within the organization, ensuring that the benefits of SaaS and GenAI tools can be leveraged safely while mitigating associated risks.
A comprehensive SIRM framework includes elements such as Identity Lifecycle Risk Governance, Access Management, Compliance Management, Security Incident Management and Response, and Enterprise Risk Management. These components work together to address the unique challenges posed by decentralized IT environments and ensure the secure adoption of SaaS applications.
The goals of a SIRM program include implementing robust access and identity risk management, mitigating risks associated with SaaS usage, ensuring regulatory compliance, improving visibility and control, adapting to evolving threat landscapes, and enhancing operational efficiency. By taking a programmatic approach to managing risks related to GenAI services and SaaS applications, SIRM supports regulatory compliance and effective risk management in today’s rapidly shifting technology environment.
In conclusion, as healthcare and BioTech organizations continue to embrace the benefits of SaaS technology and artificial intelligence, implementing robust SIRM practices is crucial for safeguarding against potential security threats and ensuring compliance with industry regulations. By prioritizing visibility, control, and security compliance, organizations can effectively manage identity-related risks and protect their valuable data in the age of digital transformation.