DI Digest – Q3 2024
As cyberattacks continue to generate worldwide headlines, one thing is clear: healthcare systems have become primary targets. In 2024 alone, cyber breaches have detrimentally impacted several major healthcare systems. And although there was no malicious intent behind the faulty CrowdStrike software update that caused system outages around the globe, the event even impacted clinical laboratory operations. Quest, LabCorp and hospital labs reported widespread disruptions to patient care and services, including the inability to process routine bloodwork.
At Data Innovations, we are keenly aware of the growing tide of cyber threats, with new vulnerabilities emerging as quickly as old ones are mitigated. This is why we have made cybersecurity a top priority in the delivery of our lab software and services. Our efforts to ensure your lab’s security include:
- Providing middleware software developed with the highest possible security standards and protections
- Performing advanced penetration testing prior to software release
- Issuing software patches on a regular basis for optimal performance and security
- Scheduling updated product releases to address known issues and vulnerabilities
While we are doing all we can to support the security of our customers’ lab operations, it is also important for labs to prioritize cybersecurity by using an actively supported version of Instrument Manager that receives ongoing security updates.
Urgent Action Required by Labs Running IM v8.16 or Earlier
We strongly recommend that customers upgrade to the newest major version of Instrument Manager – IM 2023. A key reason to upgrade to IM 2023 is its improved security features that include measures to address cyber vulnerabilities. Additionally, IM 2023 runs on a newer InterSystems database, IRIS, that has replaced the Caché database on which older versions of Instrument Manager were built. IRIS is fully supported and optimized for increased security and is more suited for cloud computing, interoperability and analytics.
If you are running an older version of Instrument Manager – IM versions 8.16.20 or older – you need to plan your upgrade to IM 2023 now. These older versions have already reached End of Maintenance (EoM). This means we are no longer providing security patches, updates, or driver development for these versions. Beginning January 1, 2026, these older versions will also reach End of Life (EoL), meaning DI will no longer provide active support for these versions. View our IM Version History page for a list of IM versions and their current EoM and EoL status.
We Can Help – Resources to Support the Upgrade Process
To assist our customers in upgrading their IM system, we have several options and resources available. First, we understand that different labs have varying levels of staffing and in-house technical expertise. Some labs may be able to manage an upgrade with minimal DI support. For these customers, we have created self-service resources to help guide their IM upgrade process. Other customers with staffing limitations may benefit from the DI team’s direct involvement through one of our Upgrade Service Packages. More information on these options and resources is available from our new IM Upgrade Resources page.
If you need help deciding the best course of action for your lab’s IM upgrade, speak to your DI customer success manager or sales representative. We’re here to enable secure, successful healthcare for your patients, lab and health system in this fast-changing cyber landscape.