Ransomware Attacks in Healthcare: A Threat to Patient Safety

Ransomware Attacks in Healthcare: A Threat to Patient Safety

Ransomware attacks in Healthcare: A threat to patient safety

A ransomware attack on a major U.S. hospital network has been endangering patients’ health. Nurses are forced to manually enter prescription information and work without electronic health records cyberattacks have become an alarming concern for healthcare institutions worldwide. 

The recent ransomware attack on Ascension Providence Rochester Hospital in the United States highlights the critical need for robust cybersecurity measures within the healthcare sector.

The incident

The hospital’s computer systems were compromised by malicious actors who infiltrated their network. The attackers deployed ransomware, encrypting critical files and rendering electronic health records (EHRs) inaccessible. Suddenly, nurses were navigating a chaotic environment where paper records replaced digital ones. The impact was immediate and far-reaching.

Patient safety at risk

  • Manual Processes: Nurses were forced to revert to manual processes for tasks that were previously automated. Prescription orders, patient histories, and treatment plans had to be recorded on paper. This shift disrupted workflows, increased administrative burden, and introduced the risk of errors.
  • Delayed Care: With EHRs offline, ac

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