Ransomware Paralyzes 140 U.S. Hospitals, Patient Care in Jeopardy
May 11, 2024
On May 8, 2024, Ascension Health faced a ransomware attack affecting 140 hospitals across the U.S., severely disrupting healthcare operations.
Critical systems including electronic health records, patient communications, and phone services were compromised, leading to delays in patient care.
Emergency cases were diverted and elective surgeries cancelled, raising serious concerns about patient safety amid a shift to paper-based systems.
The extent of the disruption in Chicago remains uncertain, but hospitals in other states have reported significant operational challenges.
Ascension Health staff are experiencing frustration due to poor communication from management regarding the cyber-attack.
Ascension Health has enlisted a third-party cybersecurity expert to investigate and is striving to limit the impact on patient services.
The incident underscores the increasing cyber threats facing the healthcare industry and the potential risks to critical infrastructure.
Summary based on 9 sources
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Sources

BleepingComputer • May 10, 2024
Ascension redirects ambulances after suspected ransomware attack
WGN-TV • May 10, 2024
Suspected cybersecurity attack at Ascension Health impacting Chicago hospitals
WDIV ClickOnDetroit • May 10, 2024
Emergency medical services diverted as Ascension hospitals nationwide grapple with cyber attack
WXYZ 7 News Detroit • May 10, 2024
Ascension has 'no timeline' for restoration of systems following cyber attack