Update on national cyberattack: Beware of scams

April 10, 2024
pen resting on healthcare form

APRIL 10, 2024 – The scope of a recent cyberattack that affected healthcare organizations across U.S. is becoming clearer.

 

Patients’ health and financial data may have been compromised in the Feb. 21 cyberattack on Change Healthcare, which manages billing, payment, and insurance verification processes for hospitals and clinics across the U.S.

 

UnitedHealth Group, which owns Change Healthcare, now says personal data was affected in the attack. Personally identifiable health information, eligibility and claims information, and financial information are likely to have been compromised.

 

It’s not clear yet the extent of the compromise, or who may have been affected. 

 

As the situation unfolds, NH+C offers this information and advice to our patients.

 

Was my medical or financial data breached in the attack on Change Healthcare? Is my medical or financial information still at risk? 

 

We don’t know yet. Information is expected to evolve over the next several weeks as Change Healthcare digs into their system. We’re watching it closely.

Is any new information I give to NH+C now safe? 

Yes. Health and financial information you provide going forward is safe in our system. We have taken more safety measures to protect our computer systems.

Be aware of scams trying to take advantage of the disruption.

 

Bad actors are running scams 1) offering a refund, or 2) collecting a payment, or 3) threatening to release individual information unless a ransom is paid.

 

Don’t give your account or financial information over the phone or online to someone who contacts you.

 

If you are concerned about any communication related to your NH+C bill or payments, call Patient Financial Services at 507-646-1399.

 

Here’s what to expect from us in communications about your bills or payments: 

 

We may contact you via phone or U.S. mail if you owe a bill, or to verify insurance coverage. 

We do NOT ask for financial information via email or text.

 

 

If you are concerned about any communication related to your NH+C bill or payments, call Patient Financial Services at 507-646-1399. 

Learn more about the cyberattack on Change Healthcare.