Rural Hospital Cybersecurity Enhancement Act

This legislation, known as the Rural Hospital Cybersecurity Enhancement Act, directs the Secretary of Health and Human Services to develop a comprehensive strategy for strengthening the cybersecurity workforce in rural hospitals. This strategy, due within one year of enactment, must address the increasing demand for skilled cybersecurity professionals in these critical healthcare settings. The Secretary is required to consult with various federal agencies, including the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, and at least two representatives of rural healthcare providers from each U.S. geographic division to ensure a broad perspective.

The strategy must consider establishing partnerships between rural and non-rural hospitals, educational institutions, and private entities to expand the workforce through tailored education and training programs. It also mandates the development of cybersecurity curricula for community colleges and vocational schools in rural areas, alongside identifying workforce challenges and common mitigation practices. Additionally, the bill requires the Secretary to publish free instructional materials for rural hospitals to train staff on fundamental cybersecurity efforts and provide annual briefings to Congress on the strategy's implementation and effectiveness. No additional funds are authorized for the purpose of carrying out this Act.