Your Personal Health Information up for Ransom: Hospital Cyberattacks Are On The Rise

In this episode, the Gritty Nurses talk about the concerning increase in cyberattacks on hospitals in recent years. Ascension, one of the largest nonprofit health systems in the nation, was hit by a ransomware attack in May 2024 (right around nurses week). Affected were no less than 12 states, over a period of 36 days. Cyber attacks have increased by 128% from 2022-2023. They discuss safety issues when EMR charting is down, how we can better prepare, how much we should rely on paper charting. Technology can be a double edged sword. Resources: https://www.npr.org/2024/06/19/nx-s1-5010219/ascension-hospital-ransomware-attack-care-lapses  https://www.npr.org/sections/shots-health-news/2024/05/23/1253011397/how-the-ascension-cyberattack-is-disrupting-care-at-hospitals  https://www.healthcaredive.com/news/ascension-cyberattack-impact-ehr-pharmacy-ambulance-diversion/719139/ https://www.healthcaredive.com/news/tracking-ascension-healthcare-cyberattack-impact/716327/  Thank you to our episode sponsor, healthcareproviders.ca!  Attention, hospital employees, retirees and HR in Canada! Picture this: a benefit plan designed for casual and part-time hospital employees and retirees who aren't covered by their hospital's group health plan. Introducing Healthcare Providers Group Insurance Plan – a friendly partner dedicated to your health and wellbeing! With affordable plan premiums and an exceptional support team, Healthcare Providers, also known as HCP, is dedicated to helping you every step of the way.  Enrolling is easy, and you'll have access to a wide range of health and basic dental benefits from day one. Already have coverage through your spouse? HCP still has your back! For less than $32 a month, the Signature Package, which includes Life, Long-Term Disability, Accidental Death, Disease & Dismemberment, provides valuable income protection and peace of mind for the unexpected. Take charge of your health and financial security today. Visit healthcareproviders.ca to learn more!  Order our Book, The Wisdom Of Nurses! Leave us a review on Amazon! https://www.harpercollins.ca/9781443468718/the-wisdom-of-nurses/ https://www.grittynurse.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@grittynursepodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/grittynurse Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gritty.nurse.podcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/GrittyNurse LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/grittynurse