When a healthcare organization experiences a cyberattack, the immediate impacts are obvious: systems go offline, appointments are delayed, and staff revert to manual processes. But the effects often extend far beyond IT, impacting patient trust, operations, and even creating opportunities for scammers.
The recent malware attack on South Carolina-based AnMed illustrates how the consequences of a cyber incident can continue long after the initial disruption.
More Than System Downtime
After detecting malware on its network, AnMed implemented downtime procedures while working with third-party cybersecurity experts and state and federal authorities to restore systems.
Patient safety remained the organization's top priority, with AnMed coordinating closely with emergency medical services, neighboring hospitals, and public safety partners to ensure patients continued receiving care.
However, manual workflows inevitably slowed operations. The health system warned patients of longer wait times, high call volumes, and delays in completing requests as staff worked without normal digital systems.
Scammers Take Advantage
One of the most unexpected consequences of a cyberattack is the confusion it creates for patients.
Following the incident, AnMed acknowledged that some patients were receiving communications—including MyChart appointment reminders—that appeared to come from the health system. On social media, patients also reported suspicious phone calls regarding bill payments and raised concerns about identity theft and credit monitoring.
Cybercriminals often exploit the uncertainty surrounding a breach by sending fake payment requests, phishing emails, or fraudulent billing notices that appear legitimate.
The Cost Goes Beyond Recovery
Cyberattacks affect much more than technology.
Organizations face operational disruptions, delayed care, increased workloads, reputational damage, and significant recovery costs. Industry estimates place the average cost of recovering from a healthcare cyber breach at approximately $7 million, even as organizations continue improving their ability to recover.
For healthcare providers, the true cost includes not only restoring systems but also rebuilding patient confidence.
The Bigger Lesson
The AnMed incident demonstrates that cybersecurity is no longer just an IT issue—it's a patient trust and care issue.
Modern cyberattacks disrupt operations, strain healthcare teams, and create opportunities for criminals to exploit patients through scams and fraudulent communications. As attacks become more frequent, healthcare organizations must prepare not only to restore systems quickly but also to communicate effectively and protect patient trust throughout the recovery process.
Don't Wait for a Cyber Incident
By the time a cyberattack makes headlines, the damage has already begun. The best defense is preparation. TLD Systems helps healthcare organizations identify vulnerabilities, strengthen security, implement reliable backup and recovery solutions, and build incident response plans before they're needed. Let our team help you reduce risk, protect patient care, and respond with confidence when every minute matters.
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