VINCERA SURGERY CENTER

The Vincera Institute, a healthcare facility based in Philadelphia, PA, experienced a ransomware attack on April 29, 2023, which potentially compromised patient data. This incident was part of a broader trend of cyberattacks targeting healthcare providers in the first half of 2023[2]. The attack on Vincera Institute potentially exposed sensitive information of approximately 15,000 individuals across several clinics[2]. The compromised data may include full names, contact details, Social Security numbers, dates of birth, medical histories and treatment records, insurance information, and other personal information provided to the Institute[1].

Upon discovering the ransomware attack, Vincera Institute took immediate steps to secure its systems and mitigate the attack’s impact. The Institute engaged specialized cybersecurity professionals to assist in the investigation and remediation efforts. Despite the potential exposure, there was no evidence at the time of reporting that indicated unauthorized access to or misuse of patient data[1][3]. Vincera Institute has taken several measures in response to the attack, including enhancing security protocols, investigating the breach thoroughly, and notifying the appropriate authorities[1].

Patients potentially affected by the incident were advised to monitor their accounts for suspicious activity, remain vigilant against phishing attempts, and contact the Institute for further assistance[1]. The incident was reported to the Health and Human Services’ Office for Civil Rights on June 20, 2023, as affecting up to 25,000 individuals across four entities associated with Vincera Institute: Vincera Imaging LLC, Vincera Rehab LLC, Vincera Surgery Center, and Core Performance Physicians, also known as Vincera Core Physicians[3][5].

In the aftermath of the breach, Vincera Institute has emphasized its commitment to transparency and the protection of patient data. The Institute has also offered resources to help affected individuals protect their information[1]. The breach is under investigation by Turke & Strauss LLP, a law firm specializing in data breach cases, which is exploring potential legal remedies for those impacted by the incident[7].

Citations:

1. https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/vincera-institute-reports-potential-patient-data-breach-due-to-ransomware-attack-301855592.html
2. https://www.beckersphysicianleadership.com/news/11-practice-data-breaches-from-the-1st-half-of-the-year.html
3. https://www.hipaajournal.com/kannact-vincera-institute-fall-victim-to-cyberattacks/
4. https://www.hackmageddon.com/2023/08/01/16-30-june-2023-cyber-attacks-timeline/
5. https://www.databreaches.net/vincera-institute-notifies-patients-after-ransomware-attack/
6. https://www.hipaaguidelines101.com/data-breaches-reported-by-idaho-department-of-health-and-welfare-utah-department-of-health-and-human-services-and-other-healthcare-providers/
7. https://www.turkestrauss.com/2023/06/23/vincera-institute-data-breach-investigation/
8. https://www.cbinsights.com/company/vincera-institute
9. https://www.beckersspine.com/orthopedic-spine-practices-improving-profits/58612-11-orthopedic-data-breaches-in-2023.html
10. https://vincerainstitute.com
11. https://casetext.com/case/steltz-v-meyers-1