Cyberattack on Ascension Health System Causes Hospital Disruptions and Patient Record Blockage

Cyberattack on Ascension Health System Causes Chaos in Hospitals Across the U.S.

A recent cyberattack on the Ascension health system, operating in 19 states across the U.S., has caused major disruptions in its operations. The attack forced some of its 140 hospitals to divert ambulances, led to the postponement of medical tests, and blocked online access to patient records.

The attack, which was detected on May 8, prompted Ascension to call in Mandiant, the Google cybersecurity unit known for responding to such incidents. While the health system did not confirm whether it was a ransomware attack or if a ransom was paid, the situation had all the hallmarks of such an attack.

As a result of the cyberattack, both the electronic records system and the MyChart system, which allows patients to access their records and communicate with their doctors, were offline. Ambulances were diverted from several hospitals, and patients in various locations reported missing tests and prescriptions.

The impact of the attack has been felt nationwide, with hospitals in Wichita, Kansas, and Pensacola, Florida, among those affected. In Wisconsin, healthcare providers have had to resort to using paper records, causing delays in patient care and operations.

Cybersecurity experts have noted a significant increase in ransomware attacks in the healthcare sector in recent years. These attacks often involve stealing data before encrypting networks, with the threat of releasing sensitive information used to extort payments.

Ascension has advised patients to bring notes on their symptoms and prescription information to appointments as the health system continues to work on restoring its systems. The incident follows a similar cyberattack on Change Healthcare earlier this year, which also disrupted healthcare operations nationwide.

The full extent of the damage caused by the cyberattack is still being assessed, and investigations are ongoing to identify the perpetrators. In the meantime, healthcare providers are working tirelessly to mitigate the impact on patient care and services.