This document provides essential information and answers common questions regarding the recent cyberattack on Change Healthcare and its implications for SCAN members. For detailed resources, including information on free credit monitoring and identity theft protection, please click here.
What is Change Healthcare and Why Is It Relevant to SCAN?
Change Healthcare, a technology company operating under Optum Solutions and owned by UnitedHealth Group, plays a crucial role in the healthcare ecosystem. You might recognize Optum Solutions as a large healthcare organization encompassing medical groups and various divisions. Specifically, Change Healthcare provides technology services that are utilized by some pharmacies within the SCAN network to efficiently process prescription claims. This behind-the-scenes processing ensures that prescriptions are filled smoothly and accurately.
The Timeline of the Security Incident: What Happened at Change Healthcare?
On February 21, 2024, UnitedHealth Group detected a significant security incident affecting Change Healthcare. In response to this cyberattack, Change Healthcare took immediate action by disconnecting its systems to contain the breach. This necessary measure initially caused disruptions, temporarily impacting the ability of some members to fill their prescriptions promptly. However, it’s important to note that Change Healthcare systems have been successfully restored and are now fully operational. Currently, SCAN members should experience no disruptions in filling prescriptions or accessing necessary healthcare services.
How Could the Change Healthcare Data Breach Affect You?
In terms of immediate healthcare access, particularly prescription fulfillment and medical care, you should not encounter any ongoing issues. The systems utilized by pharmacies and healthcare providers that rely on Change Healthcare are back online and functioning normally.
However, on April 22, 2024, UnitedHealth Group issued a report confirming that cybercriminals claimed to have successfully stolen health and personal data from Change Healthcare’s systems during the attack. At this stage, the specific types of data compromised and the precise individuals affected remain under investigation. This means there is a potential risk that personal or health information related to SCAN members could be involved in this data breach.
Proactive Steps to Protect Your Personal Information After a Health Data Breach
This security incident serves as a critical reminder of the importance of robust cybersecurity practices for everyone. Taking proactive steps to safeguard your personal information is crucial. We recommend reviewing this article for valuable tips and guidance on protecting yourself from fraud and identity theft.
Furthermore, recognizing the concern surrounding potential data exposure, UnitedHealth Group is offering resources to individuals who may be affected by the Change Healthcare cyberattack. If you are concerned about your personal data as a result of this incident, we strongly encourage you to click here to access information about available resources and support.
Reporting Issues and Seeking Assistance Related to the Cyberattack
If you experienced any difficulties or problems directly related to the Change Healthcare cyberattack, we encourage you to report these issues. You can always contact SCAN Member Services to inform us about any challenges you are facing. Additionally, you have the formal options to file a grievance (a formal complaint) or an appeal if you believe you were wrongly denied coverage or payment for medication or medical services. For comprehensive information on your options and how to report an issue online, please click here.
Understanding the Safety of Your Personal Information
Currently, the full extent to which SCAN members’ personal information has been compromised, if at all, remains unknown. If it is determined that a breach of personal information has occurred, both Change Healthcare and SCAN are committed to providing transparent and timely notifications to affected individuals. These notifications will detail the specific types of information exposed and offer access to identity protection resources to help mitigate any potential harm.
The Widespread Impact of the Change Healthcare Incident
It’s important to understand that SCAN is not the sole entity affected by this cyberattack. The Change Healthcare security incident has had a widespread impact across the healthcare landscape, affecting numerous organizations nationwide. Law enforcement agencies and government regulators are actively engaged and involved in addressing this significant issue, highlighting its severity and scope within the healthcare sector.
SCAN’s Actions and Commitment to Data Security
At SCAN, the security and confidentiality of your health information are paramount. We are actively engaged in ongoing communication with UnitedHealth Group and are diligently monitoring the situation for continuous updates and developments. Should SCAN determine that any of our members’ data has been affected by this incident, we are prepared to implement our established and robust process. This includes promptly notifying affected members and relevant authorities, adhering to all regulatory requirements and best practices for data breach response.
We are committed to keeping you informed and will continue to provide updates on this page as further information becomes available.
