GARDNER – Following an unauthorized access of its systems last October, Heywood Healthcare has determined that personal information had been viewed.
According to an announcement issued earlier this month, Heywood Healthcare notified the individuals effected by this via mail in the months that followed the incident.
On Oct. 12, 2025, Heywood detected suspicious activity on a portion of its computer network and began an internal investigation, which included reaching out to federal law enforcement.
Heywood also worked with a forensic security firm to confirm the security of its network. The investigation determined that, while it had access to Heywood’s systems, the unauthorized third party may have accessed and acquired certain files stored on the hospital’s network.
“Depending on the individual, the information may include their name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, driver’s license number, financial account number, medical treatment information, medical record number, and/or health insurance policy information,” the statement read.
Heywood issued a follow-up statement that no further incidents have been reported since last October.
“Like all organizations…Heywood Hospital reviews its cybersecurity posture in response to the ever-changing cyberthreat landscape,” the statement read.
According to the announcement, individuals should refer to the notice they will receive regarding steps to protect themselves. They should remain vigilant to protect against potential fraud or identity theft by reviewing account statements and monitoring credit reports. If individuals detect any suspicious activity on an account, they should notify the financial institution or company with which the account is maintained.
They should also report any fraudulent activity or any suspected incidents of identity theft to law enforcement, including the police and their state’s attorney general. Individuals may also wish to review the tips provided by the Federal Trade Commission on fraud alerts, security/credit freezes and avoiding identity theft.
For more information and to contact the FTC, visit www.ftc.gov/idtheft or call 877-438-4338. Notified individuals may also contact the FTC at: Federal Trade Commission, 600 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20580.
