Title: Cyber Risks In Rural Health Clinics; A Systematic Review On Suitable Risk Modelling Methods
Authors: Chinonso Valentine Nnachetam, Onyekachi Christopher Eze
Volume: 10
Issue: 1
Pages: 10-15
Publication Date: 2026/01/28
Abstract:
The rapid use of digital health technologies has helped healthcare delivery; however, it has also led to the exposure of patient's details to cyber risks, most especially in the rural health clinics. The study carried out a systematic review of existing literature to identify the major cyber risks affecting rural health clinics in the United States and to ascertain the suitable mitigation method that will help rural clinics to counter cyber threats if implemented. Findings from previous studies showed that the existing cybersecurity framework such as NIST and HITRUST are capital intensive and impractical for rural health settings. To address this gap, the study proposes a lightweight adaptive cyber risk mitigation model (LACRIMM) which is directed to the operational realities of rural health clinics. The finding provides valuable insights for healthcare administrators, policymakers, and researchers who are looking for practical cybersecurity solutions for rural health clinics.