Health department reports data breach of third-party system

January 24, 2026 - 02:56

The Baltimore City Health Department has confirmed it is investigating a significant data breach involving a third-party electronic medical records system. The incident has potentially compromised sensitive patient information, raising immediate concerns for privacy and security.

Officials disclosed that the breach occurred within a system managed by an external vendor, impacting records used for clinical and administrative purposes. While the full scope of the incident remains under active investigation, the department is working with cybersecurity experts to determine the nature of the accessed data and the number of individuals affected. This process includes a thorough forensic analysis to trace the breach's origin and extent.

In response, the health department has notified relevant authorities and is preparing to contact any patients whose protected health information may have been exposed. They advise individuals who have used departmental services to remain vigilant for any unusual activity regarding their personal information. The department emphasizes its commitment to resolving the issue and strengthening its data security protocols to prevent future occurrences. Further updates will be provided as the investigation yields more concrete details.