John Gaede, Director of Information System

Introduction to  John Gaede, Director of Information Systems at Sky Lakes Medical Center

Key Takeaways:

• Cybersecurity is Critical: Hospitals need strong protections against cyberattacks to keep operations running smoothly.
• Teamwork is Powerful: Working closely with the right partners can make a big difference during tough times.
• Quick Solutions Matter: Fast and effective actions can save lives, especially during emergencies.
• Community Comes First: It’s important to be transparent and do everything possible to care for patients.

Sky Lakes Rises Above a Ransomware Attack

In October 2020, Sky Lakes Medical Center faced a serious ransomware attack that shut down their entire system. The attack began when an employee clicked a phishing email, forcing the hospital to switch off all its electronic records, communication, and clinical tools.

Swift Action & Partnership

Sky Lakes partnered with AbbaDox, Electromech, and 3M to quickly recover. AbbaDox stepped in, and within a week, their Radiology Information System (RIS) was up and running. This fast action allowed Sky Lakes to start imaging services again and showed the dedication of their technology partners.

Final Thoughts

Sky Lakes’ story is a reminder of how important cybersecurity is, and how teamwork can help overcome even the biggest challenges to ensure patients get the care they need.