Australian GP clinic network hit by major cyber breach, patient records stolen

A significant cyber attack has compromised a network of 57 general practitioner practices and skin cancer clinics across Australia, resulting in the theft of personal and sensitive medical records. Partnered Health, the operator of the clinics, confirmed the breach on its website, stating that patient data was accessed and taken. The company became aware of the incident on June 23 and has since been collaborating with agencies including the Australian Cyber Security Centre and the police. Some patients were notified of the breach late on the day of the report. Partnered Health has identified 16 clinics where patient information, including consultation notes, referral letters, and pathology results, may have been stolen. Details such as names, contact information, addresses, and Medicare or private health insurance numbers could also be compromised. The affected clinics are located in major cities including Melbourne, Sydney, Canberra, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, and Coffs Harbour, with investigations ongoing at five other locations. Partnered Health has engaged cybersecurity experts to determine the full extent of the data breach and has secured an interim injunction from the Supreme Court of New South Wales to prohibit the use or publication of the accessed data. Patients are being warned to be vigilant against potential scams that might use their medical information to appear more convincing. The healthcare provider is also working with Services Australia to enhance monitoring for individuals whose Medicare details may have been compromised.

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Our investigations to date have confirmed that personal information, including health information, was taken from some of the clinics in our network.