Cybersecurity problem at NJ hospital prompts patient diversion
FREEHOLD TOWNSHIP − A cybersecurity problem at CentraState Medical Center has prompted the hospital to divert ambulances and most new patients to other facilities, a spokeswoman said.
Spokeswoman Lori Palmer said critical care at the hospital has not been affected and the hospital is still taking some walk-in patients.
"We are still accepting patients if people walk into the (Emergency Department). We have patients currently here, many of whom are currently being taken care of," she said.
Aside from that, outpatient services were due to be suspended at 1 p.m. Friday and remain that way until further notice.
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The IT security issue was discovered early Friday, Palmer said.
The hospital is still working to determine the extent of the problem and its cause.
Palmer said the hospital immediately alerted the state Department of Health and Senior Services.
It's unclear if the investigation involves the New Jersey Office of Homeland Security, which deals with cyberattacks. Calls to the office have not been immediately returned.
The New Jersey office and its cybersecurity division, the New Jersey Cybersecurity and Communications Integration Cell, issued an alert at the end of November warning the public to remain alert for signs of cyber threats targeting individuals, organizations and businesses across the state during the upcoming holiday season.
The office's alert level is currently at "blue" or "guarded," meaning a general risk of hacking or malicious activity exists, but no "known exploits have been identified or known exploits have been identified but no significant impact has occurred."
Ken Serrano covers crime, breaking news and investigations. Reach him at 732-643-4029 or at kserrano@gannettnj.com.
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