March 11, 2024 at 08:09PM
The Biden administration and lawmakers are pressuring UnitedHealth Group to help medical providers affected by a ransomware attack on Change Healthcare. The attack caused disruptions and cash flow issues for providers, with the hackers receiving over $22 million in ransom. Lawmakers are calling for stronger cybersecurity standards in the healthcare industry to prevent future attacks.
Key Takeaways from the Meeting Notes:
– The Biden administration and US lawmakers are pressuring UnitedHealth Group to ease medical providers’ cash flow issues following a ransomware attack on Change Healthcare.
– ALPHV/BlackCat affiliates claimed responsibility for the cyber attack, receiving over $22 million in ransom payments.
– DHHS and DOL have called on UnitedHealth Group to take responsibility and expedite funds to impacted providers.
– Lawmakers heavily criticized both the health care IT provider and the federal government’s response to the cyber attack.
– There are calls for tough, mandatory cybersecurity standards for the health care industry and potential legislation to increase financial penalties and hold company executives liable for failing in cybersecurity.
– The possibility of introducing mandatory cyber hygiene standards for health care providers and their vendors is being considered to prevent future cyber intrusions.