Pathology services provider Synnovis has recently confirmed it has rebuilt its core IT systems following the cyberattack on 3 June. It has now resumed testing services for GPs in Bexley, Lewisham and Greenwich, three of the six boroughs it serves.
Full restoration of blood transfusion services remains planned for early autumn. Normal services are operating for histology and cervical smears.
Dr Jane Fryer, Deputy Medical Director for NHS London, said: “Today, Synnovis has confirmed that they have successfully rebuilt their core IT systems which means that South East London ICB are now in a position to start moving laboratory testing services for primary care back to Synnovis in three of their six boroughs. This means that GPs in these boroughs will regain access to the same tests and volume of pre-cyber attack.
“Due to general pathology services being fully restored at Kings College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, they have seen a significant reduction in the number of outpatient appointments being postponed.
“For over two months the ransomware cyber attack has impacted patients, especially in South East London, so this reduction is a positive step forward to recovering services.”
Mark Dollar, CEO for Synnovis, said: “We have successfully rebuilt our core IT systems, meaning we are now in a position to resume testing services for GPs, with those based in Bexley, Lewisham and Greenwich transferring back to Synnovis from 15 August.
“Immediately following transfer, GPs will have access to the full repertoire of testing services available before the cyberattack, and patients registered with these practices will find it easier to get a blood test appointment. For the time being, patients with an ‘urgent test’ form from their GP will still be able to turn up to one of the designated blood test clinics without the need to pre-book.
“The cyber attack on Synnovis and local healthcare services has had a major impact on everyone and is a harsh reminder that this can happen to any organisation at any time. The approach to recovery has been truly reflective of the effective collaboration in place between healthcare organisations across southeast London, and I would like to thank patients, GPs, clinicians, our partners and others for their support and understanding throughout.”