Major U.S. Health Care Network Suffers Devastating Cyberattack

Ascension, a major U.S. health care system with 140 hospitals in 19 states, is currently facing disruptions due to a cyberattack, the company announced late Thursday. The attack has affected various systems, including electronic health records, MyChart (which allows patients to view their medical records), phone systems, and systems used to order tests, procedures, and medications.

As a result of the cyberattack, some hospitals are experiencing disruptions in emergency care, with ambulances being diverted from certain medical centers. “Several hospitals are currently on diversion for emergency medical services in order to ensure emergency cases are triaged immediately,” Ascension stated. Patients experiencing medical emergencies are advised to contact 911 for assistance.

Non-emergency procedures, tests, and appointments are also being postponed as Ascension works to address the cyber hack. The investigation and restoration process is expected to take some time, with no specific timeline provided by the health care system.

This cyberattack on Ascension is part of a series of attacks targeting U.S. health care organizations. In February, Change Healthcare, a subsidiary of UnitedHealth Group, was hit by a ransomware attack that disrupted billing at pharmacies nationwide and compromised the personal data of millions of Americans. UnitedHealth reportedly paid $22 million to the attackers in an effort to protect patients’ data.

The impact of these cyberattacks on the health care system highlights the importance of cybersecurity measures to safeguard sensitive patient information and ensure uninterrupted medical services.