22k patients of Cleveland Medical Associates affected in ransomware attack

A privacy breach at Cleveland (Tenn.) Medical Associates affected 22,000 patients, according to the HHS Office for Civil Rights breach portal.

Cleveland Medical Associates discovered ransomware on its computer network April 21, according to a notice the practice sent to patients impacted by the breach. The affected server included information like patient names, addresses and Social Security numbers, along with medical records and insurance information. The ransomware incident did not affect the practice's ability to care for patients.

The practice has since implemented a new medical records system and evaluated its security procedures. Cleveland Medical Associates also contracted a forensic investigation firm to determine the extent of the breach. Based on the investigation, Cleveland Medical Associates officials determined there is no evidence protected health information was accessed or misused.

Cleveland Medical Associates has also partnered with Equifax to provide affected patients with one year of free identity theft protection. It also established a dedicated call line to address patients' questions and concerns.

Click here to view the full notice.

Editor's note: Becker's Hospital Review reached out to Cleveland Medical Associates for comment and will update as more information becomes available.

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