About Iredell Health
Iredell Health, a medium-sized healthcare organization, faced increasing cybersecurity challenges as threats evolved. To address these risks efficiently, the organization transitioned to Fortified, a healthcare-focused Managed Security Services Provider (MSSP) with a 24/7 outsourced Security Operations Center (SOC).
Through this partnership, Iredell Health significantly improved its security posture, reduced vulnerabilities, and even lowered its cyber insurance premiums, a big achievement in today’s risk-heavy environment.
The Challenges
Iredell Health sought an MSSP partner with a healthcare-specific approach to better align with their industry’s unique needs.Their previous enterprise approach introduced opportunities for greater efficiency, as their IT and security teams frequently provided context on healthcare regulations, workflows, and priorities.
Additionally, Iredell Health recognized the value of continuous security monitoring but needed a partner to supplement their internal resources, ensuring a stronger defense against potential threats.
Why an Outsourced, Healthcare-Specific SOC?
Iredell Health discovered Fortified at a healthcare conference and immediately recognized the value of its healthcare-exclusive security expertise. Fortified provided:
- 24/7 SOC monitoring with real-time threat detection and response
- Industry-specific knowledge, reducing the burden of explaining healthcare compliance requirements
- Comprehensive vulnerability management, helping Iredell Health prioritize risks more effectively
Fortified’s ability to provide healthcare-specific insights and proactive security solutions was key to the transition.
Impact & Results
1. Reduced Vulnerabilities by 67% in One Year
With Fortified’s Central Command platform, Iredell Health gained visibility into its security risks. In the first year, the organization reduced vulnerabilities from 91,000 to 30,000, exceeding its initial target of 40,000.
2. 24/7 Threat Monitoring & Rapid Response
Fortified’s SOC provided continuous monitoring and incident response, ensuring that threats were addressed before they could escalate. Having dedicated security professionals available ‘round the clock reduced the need for in-house teams to respond to critical alerts outside business hours.
In one instance, Fortified’s team identified and resolved an issue within five minutes with downtime machines and antivirus conflicts, which otherwise could have taken days to troubleshoot.
3. Lowered Cyber Insurance Premiums
One of the most significant financial benefits was a reduction in cyber insurance costs following an annual risk assessment. The insurance provider recognized the improvements in Iredell Health’s security program, leading to lower premiums, a rare achievement for hospitals facing rising cybersecurity threats.
Transforming and Enhancing Healthcare Cybersecurity Together
By outsourcing its Security Operations Center (SOC) to Fortified, Iredell Health transformed its cybersecurity program, strengthening security, reducing vulnerabilities, and lowering costs. This partnership enhanced the hospital’s ability to manage threats and provided long-term financial and operational benefits.
For healthcare organizations seeking a proactive, industry-focused security solution, a 24/7 outsourced SOC can provide the protection and peace of mind needed to navigate today’s evolving cyber risks.
