WCHS Cyber Security Training

Winnebago, NE - Winnebago Comprehensive Healthcare System (WCHS) partnered with the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) to provide in-person cybersecurity training for employees. Warren Hagelstien, CISA's Cyber Security Advisor, presented employees with invaluable information about recognizing potential threats, such as phishing emails, suspicious links, and unsafe online practices that can put sensitive information at risk.

 

Healthcare organizations are increasingly targeted by cybercriminals due to sensitive information and critical services. In 2024, it was reported that approximately 23% of all data breaches were healthcare-related, making it the most breached industry in the world. Human error is responsible for more than 88% of data breaches, such as clicking links, falling for phishing, sending emails to the wrong person, or using weak passwords. 

 

"These statistics emphasize the importance of strong cybersecurity measures and ongoing staff training to help protect patient information and maintain safe healthcare operations," said Monti Molzen, WCHS's Information Technology Manager. "This is a dense and complex topic. The key is to work together to make our employees our greatest asset by sharing knowledge and training each other. We are grateful to CISA for being willing to partner with us to help our staff be better prepared to identify and navigate cyberattacks - every little bit helps. " 

 

In January of 2025, when Winnebago Comprehensive Healthcare System led the nation in becoming one of the first tribal-owned healthcare facilities in Indian country to separate from the Indian Health Services D1 network and be reimbursed over 5 million for the cost of that transition. This means that WCHS is responsible for owning, operating, managing, and protecting its independent IT infrastructure. Since human mistakes remain a primary driver of security incidents, in addition to this training, WCHS will continue to deploy a mix of online and in-person security awareness trainings to foster a culture where reporting mistakes is safe.

 

"WCHS is passionate about doing what we can to support and grow our employees' professional skillsets," explains Danielle Stone, WCHS's Director of Human Resources & Talent Management. "Together, we can provide a variety of opportunities for our staff to receive ongoing education on a variety of topics, including IT and cybersecurity."

 

WCHS remains dedicated to protecting privacy, safeguarding sensitive information, and maintaining secure healthcare services for the community. By investing in employee education and proactive security measures, WCHS continues to strengthen its ability to provide safe, reliable, and trusted healthcare services for the Winnebago community network.