Duke University Health System has rolled out Abridge, an ambient listening tool for clinicians, across roughly 5,000 providers to streamline note-taking by recording patient visits and automatically generating clinical notes for electronic health records. Chief Health Information Officer Eric Poon, MD, emphasized the technology's timely impact and the challenges the healthcare industry has faced in finding effective AI solutions. Abridge addresses clinician burnout and cost reduction needs, demonstrating clinical intelligence in real-world applications. There's substantial interest among Duke staff in using Abridge, prompting discussions about its potential expansion to occupational and physical therapy settings.

Duke Health Unveils Abridge: A Game-Changer for Clinician Efficiency Becker's Hospital Review

RansomHub, a new ransomware group, is utilizing the SocGholish malware-as-a-service framework to conduct attacks against U.S. government entities and various sectors, reportedly affecting over 200 victims since early 2024, including Change Healthcare and Rite Aid. SocGholish, operational since 2018, lures users into downloading malicious software through deceptive browser and software updates, leveraging a network of compromised websites. The malware employs an obfuscated JavaScript loader and utilizes a traffic distribution system to direct users to these threats, while also incorporating Python-based backdoors for initial access to command and control servers in their ransomware operations.

RansomHub Targets U.S. Government with Sophisticated SocGholish Attacks Cybersecurity Dive

The FBI has issued a warning about the ongoing threat posed by Medusa ransomware attacks, which have targeted users of Gmail, Outlook, and VPNs. The advisory underscores the importance of implementing cybersecurity measures, specifically the activation of two-factor authentication (2FA), as the Medusa group has exploited unpatched vulnerabilities and social engineering tactics since 2021, affecting over 300 victims. In collaboration with the U.S. Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), the FBI provided recommendations for organizations, such as enabling 2FA, using complex passwords, maintaining secure data backups, and regularly updating software to mitigate risks associated with these attacks.

FBI Urges Immediate Action Against Medusa Ransomware Threats WSJ

Mass General Brigham is partnering with Best Buy Health to create a care orchestration platform aimed at improving hospital-at-home services. Set to debut in spring in selected regions, the platform will enhance communication and coordination among healthcare vendors, minimizing reliance on traditional information exchange methods. Dr. Stephen Dorner, chief clinical and innovation officer at Mass General Brigham Healthcare at Home, underlined the platform's role in managing logistics, including technology, medical supplies, and staffing for effective home care. The initiative also explores the use of AI-powered sensors to further support hospital-at-home care.

Mass General Brigham and Best Buy Health Revolutionize Hospital-at-Home Care Becker's Hospital Review