Information about the cyber-attack on Synnovis, the Trust pathology provider, including data security
Skip to content

Synnovis and data security – information for patients

26 June 2024 - On 3 June, a cyber-attack was carried out on our pathology service provider, Synnovis

We understand this might be worrying for our patients and their families.

As a result, NHS England has created a set of Frequently Asked Questions for anyone who would like further information about the incident, including the latest on data security.

They have also established a free helpline for people to call. The number is 0345 8778967

If you have an appointment, including maternity, please attend hospital unless contacted. Our emergency departments (A&E) are open, but there is a longer wait than usual for blood test results.

We’ll continue to update this page with information about our services.

Disruption to our pathology services

We are currently experiencing disruption to our pathology services, particularly blood tests.

Very regrettably we have had to delay some procedures and operations.

The majority of our services are running, including outpatients and community services, although you may experience some disruption or delay during your appointment, which we apologise for.

If you have an appointment, please attend as normal. If we have to delay your appointment, we will let you know.

Blood tests

Our blood testing services are currently unable to do routine blood tests.

We are prioritising patients who most urgently need blood tests. If your test is delayed, we’ll send you a text message to let you know when you can have your test. This will be at one of our blood test centres or your clinical department.

If you’re worried a delay will affect your care, please speak with your healthcare team.

Emergency and urgent care

Our emergency departments (A&E) and urgent treatment centres at King’s College Hospital and Princess Royal University Hospital remain open to those needing urgent or emergency care, although you may experience a longer wait than usual.

If you need medical advice but it’s not an emergency, please consider using a different service to get the care you need. You could:

  • call NHS 111 or visit www.111.nhs.uk
  • make an appointment with your GP
  • go to a local pharmacist

If we feel you could be seen elsewhere, we will ask you to do so and advise you on the most appropriate place to go. If you need emergency care, you will be seen but may experience a longer wait than normal.

We apologise for any inconvenience caused, and thank you for your understanding.