Ascension Health Care is under investigation following a cyber security attack

BAY COUNTY, Fla. (WMBB) – On Wednesday, May 8, Ascension Health Care was hit by a cybersecurity attack.

This attack remains under investigation, but officials say it poses no threat to patients on site.

Ascension has more than 140 hospitals in 19 states, including eight here in Northwest Florida.

Last week they noticed unusual activity on some of their network systems.

After learning of the attack, officials immediately took action and hired outside experts to investigate whether any information was affected.

Gary Nevolis, senior director of external communications for Ascension Flordia, said it has been determined to be a ransomware incident and there is no threat to patients here in Northwest Florida.

“There is a possibility that patients may experience delays in some areas. But our staff is properly trained to maintain high quality care. Some hospitals rely on diversion or, as you know, don’t do elective procedures. This is not the case at any major hospital in Florida,” Nevolis said.

Nevolis says new and existing patients will not experience any problems with treatment during the ongoing investigation.

Ascension will release updates about the recovery process.

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