WASHINGTON, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Office for Civil Rights (OCR) has reached a settlement with Comprehensive Neurology, PC (Comprehensive), a New York-based neurology practice, following a ransomware attack that exposed the electronic protected health information (ePHI) of 6,800 individuals. The breach highlights ongoing concerns about cybersecurity vulnerabilities in the healthcare industry.
The settlement addresses potential violations of the HIPAA Security Rule, including Comprehensive’s failure to conduct a thorough risk analysis to identify threats to the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of ePHI. The ransomware attack, reported in December 2020, encrypted the practice’s IT network, rendering patient data—including names, clinical and demographic information, Social Security numbers, and insurance details—inaccessible.
“Effective cybersecurity requires proactively implementing the HIPAA Security Rule requirements before a breach or cybersecurity incident occurs,” said OCR Acting Director Anthony Archeval.
This settlement marks the 12th ransomware-related enforcement action taken by OCR. Under the agreement, Comprehensive will pay $25,000 and implement a corrective action plan monitored by OCR over the next two years. The required steps include conducting a thorough risk analysis, developing a risk management plan to address vulnerabilities, updating HIPAA-related policies and procedures, and training workforce members on safeguarding ePHI.
To mitigate future threats, OCR has advised HIPAA-covered entities to strengthen their defenses by conducting regular audits, encrypting sensitive data, and integrating risk management into business operations.
With cyberattacks targeting healthcare providers on the rise, the settlement underscores the critical importance of complying with HIPAA’s Security Rule to protect patient data. This case serves as a reminder that proactive measures and robust cybersecurity practices are essential for maintaining trust and ensuring the security of electronic health information.
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