Effective third-party risk management is crucial in securing the healthcare supply chain. FQHCs should start by regularly assessing and evaluating the cybersecurity practices of all vendors and suppliers to ensure they meet stringent security standards and comply with regulatory requirements. This assessment should be thorough, encompassing a review of the vendors' security policies, procedures, and incident response capabilities. Furthermore, it's essential to include specific cybersecurity requirements and responsibilities in contracts with vendors. These contractual obligations should cover aspects such as data protection measures, incident response protocols, and the necessity for regular security audits. Continuous monitoring of vendor networks and systems is also vital. By implementing real-time monitoring and having it properly dialled in, Health Centers can detect and respond to potential threats promptly, minimizing the risk of a breach affecting center operations, as well as the entire supply chain.

Conducting regular cybersecurity audits across the entire supply chain is a fundamental practice in identifying and addressing vulnerabilities. These audits should cover all stages, from procurement to delivery, ensuring that every link in the supply chain adheres to robust security standards. Cybersecurity awareness and training programs for all stakeholders, including internal staff and external vendors, are equally important. These programs should focus on educating stakeholders about cybersecurity best practices and the critical role of supply chain security. Additionally, implementing advanced security measures such as encryption, multi-factor authentication (MFA), and intrusion detection systems (IDS) can significantly enhance the protection of supply chain data and infrastructure. These measures provide an extra layer of defence against cyber threats, ensuring that sensitive information and PHI remains secure.