The recent cyberattack on Change Healthcare has profoundly affected physicians across the United States

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The recent cyberattack on Change Healthcare has profoundly affected physicians across the United States, as revealed by insights from an informal American Medical Association (AMA) survey. Here are the notable findings:

1. Service Disruptions: A substantial majority, accounting for over 77% of respondents, reported experiencing service disruptions since February 21, with lingering impacts from the cyberattack. These disruptions have led to the suspension of various functionalities, necessitating the use of workarounds:

• • 36% faced suspension in claim payments.

• • 32% were unable to submit claims.

• • 39% could not obtain electronic remittance advice.

• • 22% encountered difficulties verifying eligibility for benefits.

2. Financial Impact: The cyberattack has inflicted significant financial repercussions on physician practices:

• • 80% suffered revenue loss due to unpaid claims.

• • 85% allocated additional staff time and resources to complete revenue cycle tasks.

• • 78% experienced revenue loss from unsubmitted claims.

• • 51% faced revenue loss from the inability to collect patient co-pays or other obligations.

Adaptation: Despite the challenges, physician practices have demonstrated resilience but have been compelled to adapt. Some resorted to personal funds to cover practice expenses, while others encountered obstacles in meeting payroll taxes, gross receipts, and overhead costs.

Furthermore, hospitals affected by the cyberattack on Change Healthcare are confronting similar challenges. These include difficulties in verifying patients’ health insurance coverage, processing claims, and sharing clinical records with other providers. The situation remains critical, exerting considerable pressure on physicians nationwide as they grapple with the aftermath of this incident.

 

 

Posted In: Resource Information