Ransomware Cyberattack Shuts Down Ascension Healthcare Services

A major health care nonprofit, Ascension, experienced a cyberattack that disrupted its clinical operations. The incident prompted Ascension to take steps to minimize any impact on patient care.

If any sensitive patient data was compromised in the hack, Ascension will notify those affected. However, it is unclear whether the incident involved ransomware. Health care providers in the US have faced multiple ransomware attacks in recent years, which have disrupted patient care and resulted in significant financial losses for health providers.

Ascension, which operates 140 hospitals and 40 senior living facilities in 19 states, recommended that its health care clients temporarily disconnect from its network while the situation is addressed. The nonprofit detected unusual activity on some of its computer systems, leading to an investigation and notification to the appropriate authorities.

To ensure that patient care delivery remains safe and minimally impacted, Ascension has initiated procedures. The nonprofit is taking steps to prevent future incidents from occurring and protect sensitive patient data.