Ransomware attacks pose a significant threat to the United States, particularly when they target the healthcare sector. State-affiliated and cybercriminal groups exploit vulnerabilities across healthcare networks, supply chains, and software systems, causing financial and operational disruptions and undermining national security. These incidents are increasing in frequency, sophistication, and impact, signaling a deepening cybersecurity crisis. Healthcare remains a prime target due to its reliance on interconnected legacy systems, weak cybersecurity baselines, sensitive patient data, and the need to maintain continuity of care. Large-scale breaches, such as the Change Healthcare incident, underscore ransomware’s devastating implications for public health and safety. This paper introduces cyber health security theory, extending the notion of human security into the cyber domain. It posits that the integrity of health systems, data, and care is foundational to national security. Attacks on healthcare infrastructure are direct assaults on sector resilience and individual well-being, with cascading effects on economic and societal stability, and strategic power. Drawing on three case studies and related mitigation strategies, this analysis highlights the urgent need for stronger cybersecurity measures, public-private collaboration, and targeted policy reforms. Strengthening cyber resilience in healthcare is a national security imperative for protecting citizens and preserving societal stability.
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