Ascension reports cybersecurity attack disrupting clinical operations

Ascension, one of the largest health systems in the country, has reported a cybersecurity attack that has disrupted clinical operations. The health system detected unusual activity on select technology-network systems on Wednesday, prompting an immediate investigation and remediation efforts.

Ascension has engaged Mandiant, a third-party expert, to assist in the investigation process. The health system is urging its business partners to sever online connections to its system and is working to determine the extent of the impact on patient information.

Care teams have initiated procedures to ensure patient care is impacted as minimally as possible during this disruption. Ascension is continuing to assess the impact and duration of the cyberattack and will provide updates as more information becomes available.

This cyberattack comes on the heels of a February ransomware attack that continues to impact Change Healthcare, owned by Optum and affiliated with UnitedHealthcare. The incident highlights the increasing risk of healthcare cyberattacks due to the interconnectedness of systems and the incentive for bad actors to access personal information in medical records.

As the investigation into the cybersecurity attack continues, Ascension is working to safeguard its systems and protect patient information. Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.