Change Healthcare's systems halted for a week due to a cyber attack, affecting U.S. pharmacies.
By PradeepFebruary 27, 2024
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UnitedHealth, its owner, revealed a national hacker breached Change Healthcare, forcing system disconnection.
The attack disrupted payment and money management software, pivotal for pharmacies and health centers.
Over 90% of pharmacies found alternative electronic claim handling methods; the rest reverted to offline processes.
Despite setbacks, UnitedHealth reports no immediate impact on healthcare provider payments.
UnitedHealth Group, incorporating Optum and Change Healthcare since 2022, confirmed its other systems remained unaffected.
External cybersecurity experts were enlisted to assess the breach's extent and secure the systems.
The incident underscores a rising trend of cyber attacks in healthcare, with 725 significant breaches reported in 2023.
Experts stress the value of healthcare data to criminals and the need for robust cybersecurity investments.
Customers experience direct impact, facing prescription delays and concerns over personal data security amidst the ongoing response to safeguard healthcare services.