Data specialist Charlotte Staples examines the practical realities of healthcare data protection and security
The growing use of digital tools for bookings, payments and follow-ups increases exposure to cybercrime and data misuse.¹ Strong data protection frameworks not only mitigate risk but also streamline operations, reduce duplication and improve data accuracy, supporting better insight, innovation and sustainable growth. The UK Government’s 2025 Cyber Security Breaches Survey found that just over four in 10 UK businesses, out of 612,000 surveyed, reported a cyber breach or attack in the past year, with health and social care organisations among those most likely to maintain formal incident response plans.² Globally, healthcare remains the costliest specialty for data breaches, with an average breach cost of approximately GBP £5.9 million in 2025.² ³ In an era where 82% of 14,009 consumers report walking away from businesses due to concerns about data security, robust data protection has…
