Over 800 operations and 700 outpatient appointments have been affected in the first week following a cyberattack on London hospitals.
A cyberattack on Synnovis, a pathology services provider, has disrupted the computer systems of two NHS hospitals:King’s College Hospital and Guy’s and St Thomas’. This has led to the cancellation of operations, outpatient appointments, laboratory tests, and delays in medical care.
As a result, more than 800 planned operations have been rescheduled, 736 hospital outpatient appointments and 125 community outpatient appointments have been postponed.
HIV, hepatitis C, and hepatitis B screening tests are temporarily suspended.
In addition, the ability to process and report blood test results has been significantly reduced.
NHS London has declared a regional incident and is working to cover the affected services. Measures are being taken to ensure that urgent patients receive the necessary care, including operations at other hospitals. Blood tests have been diverted from GP surgeries and collaboration with NHS Blood and Transplant has increased stocks of “universal” blood. Emergency and emergency services are operating as normal.
The general public should be aware of updates from NHS London and follow their instructions.
We can help minimize the impact of this cyberattack and ensure that those who need medical attention receive it by sharing this information.
