Kettering Health, a major healthcare provider in Ohio, is currently facing a widespread technology outage due to a cybersecurity incident involving unauthorized access to its network. The Kettering Health cyberattack has impacted operations across its network of more than a dozen medical centers, prompting the cancellation of elective medical procedures and the suspension of certain communication systems.
In a public statement released Tuesday morning, Kettering Health confirmed the cyberattack, describing it as a “cybersecurity incident resulting from unauthorized access” to its network systems. The organization stated that immediate steps were taken to contain and mitigate the breach, and that an investigation is actively underway. Kettering Health has also implemented monitoring protocols to prevent further unauthorized access.
“We are currently experiencing a cybersecurity incident resulting from unauthorized access to our network. We have taken steps to contain and mitigate this activity and are actively investigating and monitoring the situation,” the statement read.
Kettering Health Cyberattack Causes Operational Impact
The cyberattack on Kettering Health has triggered a system-wide technology outage, affecting several critical patient care systems throughout Kettering Health’s network. As a result, elective inpatient and outpatient procedures scheduled for Tuesday, May 20, have been canceled. These procedures will be rescheduled at a later date, with more details to be shared as the situation evolves.
The organization emphasized that its emergency rooms and clinics remain open and are continuing to see patients. Kettering Health reassured the public that despite the technical issues, it has contingency plans in place to ensure that patients currently receiving care in its facilities continue to receive safe and high-quality medical services.
“We have procedures and plans in place for these types of situations and will continue to provide safe, high-quality care for patients currently in our facilities,” the statement noted.
However, the hospital network’s call center is also affected by the outage, potentially making it difficult for patients and the general public to contact the health system for updates or support. No timeline has been provided yet for full system restoration, but leadership teams are reportedly working closely with technical experts to restore services swiftly and securely.
Scam Calls Alert Issued
Kettering Health has issued a warning to the public about scam phone calls from individuals posing as Kettering Health employees. These callers are reportedly asking for credit card payments to cover medical expenses. The health system confirmed that while it is standard practice to discuss payment options with patients over the phone, it has temporarily suspended all such calls “out of an abundance of caution.”
“We have confirmed reports that scam calls have occurred from persons claiming to be Kettering Health team members requesting credit card payments for medical expenses,” the organization shared in its advisory.
Kettering Health has urged individuals who receive suspicious calls requesting payment to refrain from sharing any personal or financial information and to report such incidents to local law enforcement immediately. It remains unclear at this stage whether these scam calls are directly related to the Kettering Health cyberattack and network outage.
“While it is customary for Kettering Health to contact patients by phone to discuss payment options for medical bills, we will not be making calls to ask for or receive payment over the phone until further notice,” the advisory added.
No Confirmed Link Between Scam Calls and Cyberattack
At this point, hospital officials have not confirmed whether the scam calls are connected to the cybersecurity breach or the system-wide outage. The Kettering Health cyberattack is being actively investigated by internal teams, and Kettering Health has promised to keep the public informed with updates as more details become available.
Despite the operational setbacks due to Kettering Health cyberattack, the leadership team has emphasized its commitment to ensuring patient safety and data security. The organization is working with cybersecurity professionals and law enforcement agencies to investigate the incident and secure its IT infrastructure.
“Our leadership is working with multiple teams to restore services quickly and securely. We will continue to update the community as new information emerges. We appreciate your patience and support,” the statement concluded.
What Patients Should Do After Kettering Health cyberattack
For patients affected by the cancellation of elective procedures, Kettering Health has assured that rescheduling will be prioritized as systems are restored. Patients are encouraged to monitor Kettering Health’s official website and social media channels for the latest updates.
Anyone who receives a phone call asking for payment or sensitive information should:
- Not provide any personal or financial details.
- Hang up immediately and verify the call through official channels.
- Report the incident to local law enforcement.
Conclusion
As Kettering Health works to restore normal operations, the cyberattack on Kettering Health serves as a reminder of how essential cybersecurity has become in healthcare. While emergency services remain operational, the impact on elective care and communications reflects the far-reaching effects a single breach can have on both systems and patients.
The public is advised to stay informed through credible sources and to practice vigilance when dealing with unfamiliar or unsolicited communications.
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