STANLEY – Patients who received diagnostic services through Mountrail County Medical Center are being notified of a security breach that may affect the confidentiality and security of their medical data, MCMC announced.

DMS Health Technologies notified MCMC on Aug. 7 of the data security event. DMS provides diagnostic imaging services to MCMC.

According to the account provided to MCMC by DMS, an investigation involving third-party forensic specialists launched after DMS became aware of suspicious activity related to some of its computer systems.

The investigation ultimately determined there had been unauthorized access to certain information stored on DMS’s network between March 27 and April 24. DMS then performed a comprehensive review of the files determined to be at risk to identify whose information may have been impacted by this event.

The type of information potentially impacted may vary by individual but typically is limited to name, date of birth, date of service, physician name and exam type.

Upon learning of this event, DMS immediately took steps to secure its network and maintain operations in a safe and secure manner. DMS also is reviewing its existing policies and procedures and plans to implement additional administrative and technical safeguards to further secure its systems.

Notices of the event will be mailed directly to all affected patients, with resources for further protecting their information. Notice also was given to federal law enforcement and to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

MCMC encourages potentially-affected individuals to remain vigilant against incidents of identity theft and fraud by reviewing their account statements and explanation of benefits.

Questions can be directed to DMS’s assistance line at 877-288-8056 Monday through Friday from 8 a.m.-10 p.m. or Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Letters also may be sent to DMS at 728 East Beaton Drive, Suite 101, West Fargo, ND 58078.