(June 21, 2024) – On June 10, the White House announced Microsoft and Google are offering free and low-cost resources to rural hospitals to help them boost their cyber defenses. Microsoft is extending independent Critical Access Hospitals and Rural Emergency Hospitals grants up to a 75 percent discount on security products. Larger rural hospitals already using eligible Microsoft solutions are offering its security suite at no additional cost for one year. Free cybersecurity assessments and free training for frontline and IT staff at eligible hospitals will be offered as well.
Google will offer endpoint security advice at no cost and discounted pricing for communication tools, security support and funding to support software migration. Additionally, Google is committing to launch a pilot program to develop a package of security capabilities to meet the unique needs of rural hospitals.
According to the White House, these efforts aim to enhance the security and resilience of the health care sector.
--Sally Othmer