In September 2020, Universal Health Services, a hospital system spanning 400 facilities and 90,000 employees, fell victim to a Ryuk ransomware attack that crippled its IT systems overnight. Clinicians were suddenly locked out of electronic health records and lab results. They were forced to revert to pen-and-paper workflows. “It was a mad scramble,” recalled an ER nurse, “with near-constant anxiety over whether patients would get the care they needed.”
What began as a cyber incident quickly became a workforce health crisis. Staff worked long hours under extreme stress, questioning system stability even as they treated critical patients. Burnout spiked. Morale plummeted. The line between digital security and personal safety disappeared.
This story isn’t an outlier. As healthcare and other industries embrace digital tools, cyber threats will increasingly hit workers where it hurts—on the front lines of care. Occupational medicine clinics must treat cyber safety as part of workplace health and safety. This is also a chance to explore new ways to support clients.
Cyber Incidents Can Harm People
Cyberattacks aren’t just IT issues:
- Ransomware can shut down hospitals or clinics, delaying care.
- Hackers can disrupt critical systems or expose private employee data.
- Phishing can lead to identity theft, financial loss, or even workplace violence.
If it affects safety or well-being, it’s increasingly on the radar of HR and safety professionals. Many are only now recognizing its importance as a workplace risk that needs attention.
What Employers Can Do
Safety and HR leaders can:
- Include cyber hygiene in training programs
- Prepare for cyber emergencies
- Assess digital systems for safety risks
- Support staff after an incident
These steps reflect the growing responsibilities of your client’s safety and HR teams. As their occupational health partner, you’re just one or two conversations away from helping them address these emerging concerns. This may also open the door to introducing training or support services through a cybersecurity partner.
What Clinics Can Offer
Consider offering:
- Cyber safety training as part of your workplace health programs
- Partnership with cybersecurity firms
- Introductions to vetted training providers
This can help position your practice as a Total Worker Health® resource. It also opens up opportunities to offer new service lines.
Safety Isn’t Just Physical
Cyber safety is people safety. When occ med teams recognize that, they can help clients stay ahead of a growing threat.
Want to Chat About Cyber Security and Occ Med?
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