What you should know:
1. The practice fell victim to ransomware. Hackers demanded $6,500 for the files.
2. William Scalf, MD, and his partner John Bizon, MD, did not pay the hackers because there was no way to guarantee the files’ return.
3. Hackers erased all files including appointments, payment and patient information.
4. Although the hackers could not access the information contained within the practice’s EMR system, they were still able to delete it.
5. Dr. Bizon said the hackers did not copy or share the information.
6. Drs. Bizon and Scalf decided to retire early, rather than rebuild the practice from the ground up.
7. The practice will close permanently April 30. Administrators are working to refer patients to other providers.
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