Ascension Aims to Restore Electronic Health Records by June 14 After Ransomware Attack
Ascension, one of the largest healthcare providers in the United States, has announced its target date for restoring electronic health records (EHRs) following a recent ransomware attack.
Background:
On April 10, 2023, Ascension was hit by a ransomware attack that impacted its computer systems. The attack affected patient care, disrupting access to EHRs and scheduling appointments.
Current Status:
Ascension has been working diligently to restore its systems and data. As of May 25, 2023, the organization has made significant progress and is now aiming to restore EHRs by June 14, 2023.
Restoration Plan:
Ascension is following a comprehensive restoration plan that includes: * Recovering data from backups * Reinstalling and configuring systems * Testing and validating data integrity
Impact on Patients:
The ransomware attack has had a significant impact on patients, who have experienced delays in accessing medical records, scheduling appointments, and receiving care. Ascension has been working to minimize the disruption and provide alternative means of accessing patient information, such as paper charts.
Investigation and Mitigation:
Ascension is actively cooperating with law enforcement and cybersecurity experts to investigate the ransomware attack. The organization has also implemented additional security measures to prevent future attacks.
Patient Communication:
Ascension has established a dedicated hotline for patients to receive updates on the restoration process and access information about their medical records. Patients can call 1-855-997-9286 for more information.
Next Steps:
Ascension remains committed to restoring EHRs by June 14, 2023. The organization will continue to provide regular updates to patients and the public as the situation progresses. In the meantime, patients are encouraged to be patient and contact their care providers with any questions or concerns.
Ascension Aims to Restore Electronic Health Records by June 14 After Ransomware Attack
Source:
WTAQ News Talk
Summary:
Healthcare provider Ascension is targeting June 14th as the date to restore electronic health records (EHRs) affected by a ransomware attack. The attack, which was reported on April 17th, disrupted the hospital system’s digital infrastructure, including patient records and scheduling systems.
Details:
* Ascension has been working with third-party experts to assess the damage and restore the affected systems. * The company has implemented manual workarounds and is using alternative methods to access patient information. * Patient care has continued throughout the incident, but some services have been delayed or modified. * Ascension is working with law enforcement and cybersecurity experts to investigate the attack. * The company has apologized for the inconvenience caused to patients, employees, and providers.
Note:
Ascension has over 150 hospitals and 2,000 patient care sites across the United States. The ransomware attack is a significant disruption to its operations.