Cyber Threats in Hospitals: Manar Haydar Raises the Alarm for Safer Systems

In a time when hospitals across Lebanon are facing growing cybersecurity threats, MEPI TLG scholar Manar Haydar stepped forward to highlight an issue that often goes unnoticed but directly affects patient lives. As a speaker at the 12th Annual Congress of the Lebanese Society for Quality and Safety in Healthcare, she shared a story that blended resilience, responsibility, and a deep commitment to safeguarding patient wellbeing.

Manar represented Ain Wazein Medical Village, one of the hospitals recently targeted by a ransomware attack. Instead of focusing on fear or uncertainty, she chose to shine a light on the remarkable teamwork and preparedness that helped the hospital protect both its systems and its patients. Through her presentation, she walked attendees through the hospital’s experience, explaining how its contingency plan preserved the accuracy of medical records and ensured that no patient was placed at risk during the crisis.

“Cyberattacks are no longer rare incidents,” she reflected during her talk. “They are challenges that demand awareness, preparation and strong communication between teams.” Her words resonated deeply with the audience, many of whom worked in quality management, risk assessment, patient safety and hospital IT.

Manar’s presentation did more than recount events. It urged healthcare professionals to take proactive steps, strengthen their policies and improve their readiness. Participants emphasized how her insights helped them better understand the urgency of cybersecurity and the role it plays in maintaining safe, reliable care.

The congress also opened doors for collaboration, knowledge sharing and professional growth. By representing her institution and the MEPI TLG Program, Manar demonstrated how young leaders can influence national conversations and contribute to stronger and safer healthcare systems.

Her story reflects the values of leadership, academic excellence and service that the Tomorrow’s Leaders Graduate Program strives to cultivate. With her dedication and clarity of vision, Manar continues to stand out as an emerging leader in the field of healthcare quality and patient safety.