On Wednesday, Ascension health reported that its technology network systems were disrupted due to “unusual activity” that was detected. The company believes this incident was a cybersecurity event and responded immediately by beginning an investigation into the issue.
As a result of the disruption, clinical operations were impacted and officials are currently assessing the extent of the incident, including how long it lasted. It is unknown if any other systems were affected in this disruption.
To ensure patient care at its facilities could continue safely, Ascension’s teams implemented procedures to address the situation. The company has enlisted the help of Mandiant, a third-party expert, to assist in investigating and resolving the issue. Authorities have been notified and are actively investigating the incident to determine the cause and extent of the disruption.
If any sensitive information was compromised, Ascension has stated that individuals will be notified and provided with support. As a precautionary measure, the company is advising its business partners to temporarily suspend their connections with Ascension until further notice. Partners will be informed when it is safe to reconnect with the company.
Ascension is working to gather more information about the incident and is continuously updating its website with the latest details. The health care company is taking all necessary steps to address the cybersecurity event and ensure the safety and security of its systems and patients.