A recent cyberattack has disrupted operations at a major US health care network, Ascension, leading to concerns about patient care. The health care nonprofit, which operates 140 hospitals and 40 senior living facilities across 19 states, is taking steps to minimize the impact of the attack on its clinical operations.

According to a statement from Ascension, the organization detected unusual activity on some of its computer systems, prompting an investigation and notification to the appropriate authorities. As a precautionary measure, Ascension has recommended that its health care clients temporarily disconnect their network connections to Ascension while the incident is being addressed.

While the extent and duration of the disruption are still being assessed, Ascension has assured that patient care delivery will continue to be safe and minimally impacted. In the event that any sensitive patient data was compromised during the cyberattack, Ascension has pledged to notify those affected.

Although details about the nature of the cyberattack, such as whether it involved ransomware, were not immediately disclosed by the Ascension spokesperson, concerns about the increasing frequency of such attacks on health care providers in the US have been raised. In recent years, ransomware attacks have not only disrupted patient care but have also incurred significant financial losses for health care organizations.

For instance, a ransomware attack on a subsidiary of UnitedHealth Group in February resulted in billing disruptions at pharmacies nationwide and posed a threat to the financial stability of some health providers. The incident highlights the vulnerability of the health care sector to cyber threats and the urgent need for enhanced cybersecurity measures.

As cyber threats continue to evolve, organizations like Ascension are under increasing pressure to safeguard their systems and protect sensitive patient information from malicious actors. The incident serves as a reminder of the critical importance of investing in robust cybersecurity defenses to ensure the continuity of essential health care services and protect patient privacy.