
Crossing Borders: The Cyber Pulse of Global Healthcare | A Conversation with Dr. Saif Abed | Redefining CyberSecurity with Sean Martin
04/02/24 • 40 min
Guest: Dr. Saif Abed MD, Director of Cybersecurity Advisory Services, The AbedGraham Group
On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/drsaifabed/
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Host: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast [@RedefiningCyber]
On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/sean-martin
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Episode Notes
In this episode of the Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast, host Sean Martin welcomes Dr. Saif Abed, who brings a wealth of experience from both the medical and cyber security practices. Specializing in the interface of healthcare and cybersecurity, Dr. Abed discusses the diverse challenges and evolving threats faced by the healthcare sector amidst rapid digitization and the global push towards electronic health records and connected medical devices.
Dr. Abed provides insightful reflections on the state of cyber maturity across nations, emphasizing the diverse stages at which healthcare systems find themselves in terms of digitization and cybersecurity readiness. He underpins the conversation with examples from his extensive advisory roles to technology companies and governmental agencies, especially during critical times such as the pandemic.
A significant part of the discussion revolves around how healthcare entities are digitizing faster than they can secure their systems, making them susceptible to attacks such as ransomware. Dr. Abed criticizes the reactive nature of policy and regulation, suggesting that it often lags behind the threats, posing an ongoing challenge for healthcare providers to maintain patient safety and care quality.
The conversation also explores the implications of policies like HIPAA and the importance of adopting a global treaty to address cyber attacks on healthcare organizations. Dr. Abed argues for a balanced approach — 'carrots' for providers and 'sticks' for vendors — to enforce better compliance and ensure the sustainability of digital healthcare ecosystems. Through a blend of personal anecdotes, professional achievements, and expert analysis, Dr. Abed offers a nuanced understanding of the intricate relationship between healthcare delivery and cybersecurity. His call for more resilient and proactive measures highlights the urgent need for alignment between healthcare advancements and cybersecurity policies to protect public health on a global scale.
Top Questions Addressed
- How does digitization in healthcare face cybersecurity challenges?
- What role do policies like HIPAA play in shaping cybersecurity in healthcare?
- How can global healthcare policy and diplomacy improve cybersecurity in healthcare?
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Watch this and other videos on ITSPmagazine's YouTube Channel
Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast with Sean Martin, CISSP playlist:
📺 https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnYu0psdcllS9aVGdiakVss9u7xgYDKYq
ITSPmagazine YouTube Channel:
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Be sure to share and subscribe!
___________________________
Resources
Inspiring Post: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/drsaifabed_dr-abed-who-cybersecurity-publications-activity-7158569953263042561--Gi3/
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To see and hear more Redefining CyberSecurity content on ITSPmagazine, visit:
https://www.itspmagazine.com/redefining-cybersecurity-podcast
Are you interested in sponsoring this show with an ad placement in the podcast?
Learn More 👉 https://itspm.ag/podadplc
Guest: Dr. Saif Abed MD, Director of Cybersecurity Advisory Services, The AbedGraham Group
On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/drsaifabed/
____________________________
Host: Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast [@RedefiningCyber]
On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/sean-martin
___________________________
Episode Notes
In this episode of the Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast, host Sean Martin welcomes Dr. Saif Abed, who brings a wealth of experience from both the medical and cyber security practices. Specializing in the interface of healthcare and cybersecurity, Dr. Abed discusses the diverse challenges and evolving threats faced by the healthcare sector amidst rapid digitization and the global push towards electronic health records and connected medical devices.
Dr. Abed provides insightful reflections on the state of cyber maturity across nations, emphasizing the diverse stages at which healthcare systems find themselves in terms of digitization and cybersecurity readiness. He underpins the conversation with examples from his extensive advisory roles to technology companies and governmental agencies, especially during critical times such as the pandemic.
A significant part of the discussion revolves around how healthcare entities are digitizing faster than they can secure their systems, making them susceptible to attacks such as ransomware. Dr. Abed criticizes the reactive nature of policy and regulation, suggesting that it often lags behind the threats, posing an ongoing challenge for healthcare providers to maintain patient safety and care quality.
The conversation also explores the implications of policies like HIPAA and the importance of adopting a global treaty to address cyber attacks on healthcare organizations. Dr. Abed argues for a balanced approach — 'carrots' for providers and 'sticks' for vendors — to enforce better compliance and ensure the sustainability of digital healthcare ecosystems. Through a blend of personal anecdotes, professional achievements, and expert analysis, Dr. Abed offers a nuanced understanding of the intricate relationship between healthcare delivery and cybersecurity. His call for more resilient and proactive measures highlights the urgent need for alignment between healthcare advancements and cybersecurity policies to protect public health on a global scale.
Top Questions Addressed
- How does digitization in healthcare face cybersecurity challenges?
- What role do policies like HIPAA play in shaping cybersecurity in healthcare?
- How can global healthcare policy and diplomacy improve cybersecurity in healthcare?
___________________________
Watch this and other videos on ITSPmagazine's YouTube Channel
Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast with Sean Martin, CISSP playlist:
📺 https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLnYu0psdcllS9aVGdiakVss9u7xgYDKYq
ITSPmagazine YouTube Channel:
📺 https://www.youtube.com/@itspmagazine
Be sure to share and subscribe!
___________________________
Resources
Inspiring Post: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/drsaifabed_dr-abed-who-cybersecurity-publications-activity-7158569953263042561--Gi3/
___________________________
To see and hear more Redefining CyberSecurity content on ITSPmagazine, visit:
https://www.itspmagazine.com/redefining-cybersecurity-podcast
Are you interested in sponsoring this show with an ad placement in the podcast?
Learn More 👉 https://itspm.ag/podadplc
Previous Episode

Now You’re in Role: The Fearless CISO | A Conversation With Jessica Robinson | A Deep Dive into RSA Conference 2024 | On Location Coverage with Sean Martin and Marco Ciappelli
Guests: Jessica Robinson, Executive Officer of PurePoint International [@PurIntl]
On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-a-robinson-she-her-22740311/
At RSAC | https://www.rsaconference.com/experts/jessica-robinson
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Hosts:
Sean Martin, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining CyberSecurity Podcast [@RedefiningCyber]
On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/sean-martin
Marco Ciappelli, Co-Founder at ITSPmagazine [@ITSPmagazine] and Host of Redefining Society Podcast
On ITSPmagazine | https://www.itspmagazine.com/itspmagazine-podcast-radio-hosts/marco-ciappelli
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Episode Notes
The RSA Conference 2024 is just around the corner, and our hosts Sean Martin and Marco Ciappelli are gearing up for an insightful and engaging on-location coverage of the event. In this second Chat On The Road to RSA Conference 2024 conversation with cybersecurity expert Jessica Robinson, we got a sneak peek into what to expect from this year's talk she will give during the event.
Now You’re in Role: The Fearless CISO
As a follow up to the talk last year at RSAC, attendees will learn the top three skills for success for any first time CISOs to advance and grow their cybersecurity program. This talk will be a discussion on what is most important as we start to really think about what is required for success in the CISO role as it directly relates to the success of the cybersecurity program.
The stage is set for an enriching dialogue on the nuances of the CISO role, cybersecurity programs, and the evolving landscape of cyber threats. Jessica Robinson, with her wealth of experience and fearless approach to cybersecurity leadership, promises to dive deep into the art of making possibilities a reality in the realm of cybersecurity.
Embracing Fear to Unlock Potential
One of the key themes that emerged from the conversation was the idea of embracing fear to unlock untapped potential. Jessica emphasized the importance of facing challenges head-on, advocating for cybersecurity programs, and pushing boundaries to drive meaningful change within organizations. By transforming fear into a catalyst for growth and innovation, CISOs can navigate the complex cybersecurity landscape with confidence and resilience.
The Art of Possibility in Cybersecurity
The theme of this year's RSA Conference, "The Art of Possible," resonates deeply with Jessica's approach to cybersecurity leadership. By infusing creativity, strategic thinking, and a proactive mindset into their roles, CISOs can redefine what is achievable in the realm of cybersecurity. The session with Jessica promises to offer valuable insights on how to leverage the art of possibility to advance cybersecurity programs and drive success in an ever-evolving threat landscape.
Joining the Conversation
As Sean Martin and Marco Ciappelli gear up for the RSA Conference 2024, they invite cybersecurity enthusiasts, industry experts, and professionals to join them on this enriching journey. The on-location coverage promises to capture the pulse of the conference, featuring engaging conversations, expert insights, and thought-provoking discussions on the future of cybersecurity.
With Jessica Robinson's fearless approach to cybersecurity leadership and the insightful conversations lined up for the RSA Conference 2024, this year's event is set to be a landmark gathering for cybersecurity professionals. Stay tuned for more updates, interviews, and coverage as Sean Martin and Marco Ciappelli bring you the latest insights from the forefront of cybersecurity innovation.
RSA Conference 2024 promises to be a platform where possibilities converge with reality, fear transforms into opportunity, and cybersecurity leaders pave the way for a secure digital future. Join us on this exciting journey as we explore the art of possibility in cybersecurity with Sean Martin, Marco Ciappelli, and a host of industry experts at RSA Conference 2024.
Be sure to follow our Coverage J...
Next Episode

Embracing Change and Innovation | A Conversation with Mike Shanko | The Soulful CXO Podcast with Dr. Rebecca Wynn
Guest: Mike Shanko, Former Chief Information Officer
On LinkedIn | https://www.linkedin.com/in/shanko/
Host: Dr. Rebecca Wynn
On ITSPmagazine 👉 https://www.itspmagazine.com/itspmagazine-podcast-radio-hosts/rebecca-wynn
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This Episode’s Sponsors
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Episode Description
In this episode of the Soulful CXO, Dr. Rebecca Wynn welcomes Mike Shanko, an award-winning Transformation Chief Information Officer and Board Advisor. Mike's extensive experience spans across various industries, including his roles at Blue Yonder, U-Haul, Silicon Valley Bank, and Consumers Energy. He's been recognized with the 2024 HMG Global Leadership Institute Award and the 2022 Arizona Chief Information Officer of the Year by ORBIE. We discuss that cybersecurity is no longer just a technical concern but a strategic imperative for technology leaders. Understanding risk management and implementing robust cybersecurity measures are essential for managing organizations effectively and safeguarding against cyber threats in today's rapidly evolving technological environment. We also highlight the importance of embracing change and staying adaptable in the rapidly evolving technology landscape, especially with emerging technologies like AI. Mike emphasized that change is constant in the professional world, driven by technology advancements, leadership changes, restructuring, and societal impacts. Organizations need to pivot their strategies, teams, and build paths to adapt to these changes proactively. Check out the full episode for more insights and proactive action steps.
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Resources
Unlocking Cyber Resilience: Your Essential 2024 Security Guide: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/unlocking-cyber-resilience-your-essential-2024-guide-dr-rebecca-ecf7c/
2024 Predictions: Impact of AI on GRC: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/2024-predictions-impact-ai-grc-dr-rebecca-wynn-the-soulful-cxo-v7pdc/
NIST CSF v2.0: Simplified Cybersecurity Guidance: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/nist-csf-v20-simplified-cybersecurity-guidance-wynn-the-soulful-cxo-efvvc/
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Support:
Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/soulfulcxo
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For more podcast stories from The Soulful CXO Podcast With Rebecca Wynn: https://www.itspmagazine.com/the-soulful-cxo-podcast
ITSPMagazine YouTube Channel:
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