Cyber Resilience in NHS-Commissioned Services: Managing Digital Risk
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Cyber incidents disrupt care, not just IT systems. For NHS-commissioned services, cyber resilience is now firmly linked to patient safety, business continuity and system trust.
Commissioners increasingly expect providers to demonstrate a clear, practical approach to managing digital risk.
This closely links with business continuity and IT & systems resilience.
Why cyber resilience matters to commissioners
NHS systems depend on digital tools to:
- Coordinate care and discharge
- Access critical patient information
- Monitor performance and safety
When systems fail, the impact is immediate and wide-reaching.
Common cyber risks in commissioned services
Commissioners frequently identify risks such as:
- Outdated software and unsupported systems
- Poor password and access controls
- Limited staff awareness of cyber threats
These weaknesses increase system vulnerability.
What commissioners expect providers to have in place
At a minimum, providers should evidence:
- Up-to-date cyber security policies
- Clear incident response procedures
- Regular system updates and patching
Cyber resilience is treated as an ongoing process.
Staff awareness and day-to-day practice
Effective cyber resilience depends on:
- Routine staff training
- Clear guidance on phishing and scams
- Simple reporting routes for concerns
Human error is one of the biggest risks.
Incident response and recovery
Commissioners expect providers to demonstrate:
- Clear escalation routes
- Plans to maintain service delivery
- Post-incident learning and improvement
Recovery planning is as important as prevention.
What good looks like in practice
Strong providers can show:
- Proactive cyber risk management
- Clear leadership accountability
- Integration with wider continuity planning
This reassures commissioners that services are resilient.
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