Hackers obtained no patient information because the practice’s EHR system encrypted the files, John Bizon, MD, co-founder of Brookside ENT and Hearing Center, told WWMT.
Hackers infected the medical center’s records system with ransomware and demanded co-founders Dr. Bizon and William Scalf, MD, pay $6,500 to buy back access to the medical files, according to the report. Drs. Scalf and Bizon chose not to pay the ransom, and hackers erased all the system’s files, including patient information and appointment schedules.
Drs. Scalf and Bizon have decided to retire early as a result of the cyberattack. The medical practice plans to close April 30, and the staff is currently providing referrals and working to answer patient questions.
More articles on cybersecurity:
UCLA Health to pay $7.5M to settle data breach class-action case
Patient sues UConn Health, says data breach exposed her to bank fraud
Insurers team up on cybersecurity software evaluation program
Becker’s 3rd Annual Fall Chief Pharmacy Officer Summit is the top tier event that the people leading the future of pharmacy convene. This 3-day event is built specifically for Chief Pharmacy Officers and senior pharmacy leaders. The sessions examine the workforce, financial and clinical priorities shaping pharmacy today. Becker’s is where candid discussions flourish and new ideas thrive. Becker's 3rd Annual Fall Chief Pharmacy Officer Summit
