NHS 111: Warning of delays as cyber-attack causes major IT systems outage

The NHS’s Adastra system, used to refer patients for care including dispatching ambulances, has been hit by a major cyberattack. The system is used across the whole of the UK, and up to 85% of NHS 111 providers. Advance, which operates Adastra, stated that it took “early intervention” and contained the issue. However, the effects of the attack may persist until next week. Contingency plans are in place to minimise disruption and handle increased patient loads.