In a presentation, “Proof of Life: What to Do When You are Attacked by Ransomware,” at the upcoming national American Health Law Association (AHLA) Fraud and Compliance Conference, Principal Barry Mathis, along with John Kelly with Barnes & Thornburg, will discuss ransomware attacks on hospitals, which are increasing at an alarming rate.
Ransomware is a form of malicious software that locks digital data and prevents victims from accessing it unless a ransom is paid to the attacker. Hospitals store critically important—often life-saving—data on their databases and equipment, so to restore hospital operations, the likelihood of a quick ransom payment is high.
Because of the prevalence of attacks, Mathis and Kelly believe the question hospital leaders should ask is not if an attack will occur but when. Sharing first-hand experience with ransomware attacks, Mathis and Kelly will help conference attendees understand how to prepare for an inevitable attack, maintain operations during an attack, and negotiate a ransomware settlement.
During the presentation, Mathis will share his most important tip for healthcare leaders: “Develop an incident response plan, test the plan, and communicate with your legal team regularly and not just when you experience the breach. Too much time is wasted getting acclimated to the plan,” he said.
The AHLA Fraud and Compliance Conference takes place Sept. 27-29, and Mathis and Kelly will present on Sept. 28. Learn more and register for the conference.
AHLA is the “nation’s largest, nonpartisan, 501(c)(3) educational organization devoted to legal issues in the health care field,” according to its website. The organization’s membership is diverse and includes professionals who work in law and consulting firms, academic settings, and all roles devoted to healthcare.
PYA is honored to be an AHLA Gold Level Program Sponsor.
If you would like additional guidance on cybersecurity, information technology infrastructure, risk assessment and management, compliance, or any matter related to healthcare strategy and transactions, one of our executive contacts would be happy to assist. You may email them below or call (800) 270-9629.
Learn more about PYA’s comprehensive risk management program, Overwatch.
