ManageMyHealth data breach: No impact on Health NZ systems

A cyber data breach on the ManageMyHealth app, used to connect patients with clinicians, was revealed on New Year's Eve. Photo / 123RF

Health officials have confirmed that a major cyber data breach on a patient portal app has not impacted Health New Zealand systems.

Te Whatu Ora Health NZ’s acting national director for planning, funding and outcomes, Jason Power, said it took any issue involving patient information seriously.

As a result, it had activated its own incident management team after more than 108,000 ManageMyHealth app users were affected in a cyber data breach confirmed on New Year’s Eve.

The app - said to be the country’s largest patient information portal - connects patients with clinicians and gives them access to medical records.

Health NZ says its systems have not been impacted by the cyber data breach. Photo / File

“We are working with relevant agencies, including the National Cyber Security Centre and the Police Cyber Crime Unit, to ensure the situation is being managed appropriately,” Power said.

“We are also utilising independent cyber specialist capability to provide further assurance that the vulnerabilities that led to the breach have been addressed.”

Health NZ officials are also speaking with primary care organisations and GPs who use the app.

“There is a shared focus on patient safety, clear communication and ensuring appropriate protections are in place.”

Power said it expected the MMH app to meet clear standards around system security, transparency and communication with users.

“Health NZ will continue to monitor progress closely and maintain active engagement with MMH and partner agencies.”

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