Change Healthcare, a key player in the U.S. healthcare sector, recently overcame a severe ransomware attack attributed to the ALPHV/BlackCat group. The company, now under Optum Solutions post-merger, faced notable connectivity issues affecting critical applications in the preceding month. Although the assault caused internal system disruptions, Change clarified that its parent company, UnitedHealth Group, remained operational and unharmed.
Amid the recovery phase, Change Healthcare actively restored functionality to essential systems, allowing for Pharmacy services to operate fully. Notably, the company ensured patient care by facilitating medication access through Optum Rx pharmacies. Additionally, plans are underway to reinstate electronic payment services by mid-March, with systematic connectivity and service restorations slated for the forthcoming week. The company advised clients to utilize established workarounds, emphasizing the adoption of the new iEDI claim submission system for heightened redundancy and operational resilience.
Simultaneously, Optum initiated a Temporary Funding Assistance Program to aid affected providers facing cash flow gaps post-attack. UnitedHealthcare pledged further financial support for medical, dental, and vision providers, streamlining advances to bridge payment disparities effectively. Providers were encouraged to partake in the program to expedite addressing short-term financial needs and ensure continued service provision in the midst of the cybersecurity crisis.
