The Kentucky Health Center Network (KHCN) is proud to announce its participation in Cybersecurity Awareness Month this October, joining a global effort led by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) and the National Cybersecurity Alliance (NCA) to promote safer digital practices for individuals and organizations alike.
Now in its 22nd year, Cybersecurity Awareness Month is a call to action for everyone to take responsibility for their online safety. This year’s theme, Stay Safe Online, emphasizes the importance of empathy, accessibility, and shared responsibility in creating a safer digital world.
“At KHCN, cybersecurity is not just a technical concern – it’s a fundamental part of how we protect our member health centers, our patients, and our community,” said Jennifer NeSmith, CEO. “By participating in Cybersecurity Awareness Month, we aim to empower everyone with practical tools and knowledge that make online safety feel achievable and approachable.”
KHCN emphasizes the importance of the Core 4 cybersecurity practices – four essential habits that can significantly reduce the risk of cyber threats:
- Use strong passwords and a password manager
- Turn on multifactor authentication (MFA)
- Update your software regularly
- Recognize and report phishing and scams
By focusing on simple, effective steps and creating a culture of shared responsibility, KHCN is proud to contribute to the broader mission of building a more secure digital future.
KHCN is also a proud member of the HRSA Region IV Health Center Controlled Network (HCCN). Through this partnership, KHCN works alongside networks in the Region IV Digital Health Alliance to strengthen the capacity of Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs). Together, the Alliance helps health centers improve data quality and reporting, optimize the use of health information technology systems, expand interoperability and data sharing, and enhance cybersecurity. By collaborating across the region, the Alliance ensures that member FQHCs are better equipped to deliver high-quality, patient-centered care in today’s digital landscape.
For more information on Cybersecurity Awareness Month, visit https://staysafeonline.org or https://www.cisa.gov/cybersecurity-awareness-month.