Rural healthcare leaders gathered Aug. 25 in Pigeon for a Business Continuity and Resilience Tabletop Exercise focused on strengthening cybersecurity preparedness and organizational resilience. The MHA and Scheurer Health hosted the event with experts from the Michigan State Police, FBI, Michigan Medicine and MHA Endorsed Business Partner CyberForce|Q.
Participants explored how rural hospital leadership teams make decisions during a realistic cybersecurity incident, focusing on hospital operations, patient care and organizational stability rather than technical information technology details. Attendees walked through real-world challenges related to operational continuity, risk management and internal and external communication, gaining insight into how leadership actions shape outcomes during stressful situations.
Table-based discussions focused on internal organizational coordination response, while group discussions highlighted broader support systems available during a cybersecurity incident. The event also provided an opportunity to strengthen relationships with the FBI, Michigan State Police’s Cyber Command Center and the Regional Healthcare Coalitions.
“Rural hospitals face many of the same cybersecurity threats as larger health systems, often with fewer resources,” said Ross Ramsey, MD, president and CEO, Scheurer Health.
“This tabletop exercise provided valuable insights and practical strategies to help healthcare leaders prepare, respond and maintain continuity of care during a cyber incident. We were proud to partner with the MHA and other cybersecurity experts to host this important event for Michigan’s rural healthcare community.”
This was the second tabletop exercise of its kind. MHA members interested in hosting a similar event in their region may contact Rob Wood at the MHA.
As a trusted cybersecurity partner to healthcare organizations for over 30 years, CyberForce|Q supports efforts to improve cyber readiness, operational resilience and business continuity. Through risk-based assessments, strategic guidance and ongoing collaboration, CyberForce|Q helps healthcare leaders better understand and address cybersecurity challenges while maintaining focus on patient care, organizational stability and community trust. With experience supporting hospitals and healthcare providers of all sizes, CyberForce|Q helps organizations strengthen security programs, reduce risk and prepare for evolving cyber threats.
Members interested in learning more about the MHA’s partnership with CyberForce|Q may contact Kirsten Roth, business development, CyberForce|Q.
Phone: (517) 703-8601
Fax: (517) 703-0628
