Independent provider group hit by cyberattack, delays patient care
An independent physician group in Missouri has suffered a “cybersecurity event” that has locked down many of its systems, including access to the EHR used by its practices.
According to an announcement, Esse Health advised patients that its network remains offline and that it is working to restore services at its 50 locations. However, it contends that all offices remain open and are accepting patients.
Because much of its data remains quarantined and its phone systems are down, the clinics are operating at limited capacity. Patients are advised to send text messages or communicate with their doctor through the patient portal.
In its statement, Esse said the breach is still being investigated, and it is unsure whether data was accessed or taken by hackers. The provider group said it is working with a third-party specialist to get the facts.
“If our investigation determines that the confidentiality of data related to any individuals was compromised, we will notify them directly,” Esse said.
Patients report delayed care
The recovery process is in its early stages, and the exact nature of the breach and shutdown remains unknown. However, details in a report from local media point to a possible ransomware incident.
According to KMOV St. Louis, a CBS affiliate, hundreds of patients have reported their healthcare has been placed on hold, with one patient stating her data is locked away in a frozen computer database. As a result, that patient was unable to make her April 30 appointment with a specialist.
Given the timeline, the outlet concluded that the attack on Esse occurred sometime last month. As of May 9, the provider practice has posted no further public updates on its website, and its network remains at least partially down.
HealthExec reached out to Esse for more details.
Chad is an award-winning writer and editor with over 15 years of experience working in media. He has a decade-long professional background in healthcare, working as a writer and in public relations.