Independent security technology integrator Reliance High-Tech has again achieved the prestigious ‘Standards Exceeded’ rating in its annual NHS Data Security and Protection Toolkit (DSPT) assessment.
Of the 77,616 organisations and NHS departments taking the NHS DSPT assessment and appearing on the register, only 4,317 meet the ‘Standards Exceeded’ criteria, which places Reliance High-Tech in the top six per cent of the register.’
The NHS DSPT is a security assessment tool designed to help healthcare organisations across the UK ensure that they are handling patient data securely, and in accordance with relevant regulations and standards.
Cyber threats are constantly evolving, so we need to have our finger on the pulse in terms of how we protect our customers.
It provides a framework for organisations to assess their data security practices and confirms compliance with the requirements set out by the UK Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC), NHS Digital and the National Data Guardian’s 10 data security standards.
The NHS DSPT helps organisations ensure that patient data is kept safe, maintains trust with patients and mitigates the risks associated with data breaches and cyberattacks.
Reliance High-Tech has worked extensively with the NHS over its 40-year history.
Its record of successfully completing complex healthcare installations is unrivalled, and the company works closely with its clients’ security and IT operations to combat physical, environmental, and cyber threats.
Furthermore, since 2009 its Reliance Protect division has been the leading provider of lone worker safety solutions to the health and social care sectors and has over 450 contracts with NHS Trusts.
‘What was considered as secure or good practice in the past, won’t necessarily be acceptable in the future,’ explains Alex Buckingham, information security manager at Reliance High-Tech. ‘Cyber threats are constantly evolving, so we need to have our finger on the pulse in terms of how we protect our customers.
As with our other information security & business continuity-based certifications and accreditations, which include Cyber Essentials Plus, ISO 27001 and ISO 22301, we must demonstrate continual improvement to retain our NHS DSPT “Standards Exceeded” status.’
The NHS is a target for cyber criminals due to the vast amount of sensitive data it holds.
Buckingham notes further: "The security of personal information has never been more important, increasing privacy laws and regulations protect all of us and without them, cyberattacks will not only cause disruption but potentially devastating consequences to individuals and organisations alike."
Alistair Enser, Reliance High-Tech CEO, adds: "Operating at the highest levels, Reliance High-Tech understand, support and work closely with the NHS and other customers to ensure we comply fully with industry best practice, as well as their specific standards and policies, such as the NHS toolkit.
The critical importance of information security and cyber security is reflected in our designs, our actions, and continuous auditing by external compliance teams.
