Last month, Lutheran Health and its parent company Community Health Systems announced more than 4.5 million patients had personal data hacked from its servers. Some of those involved are area residents. Letters are now reaching patients, detailing what they can do to protect themselves. The message from Lutheran describes the cyber attack as a criminal act originating in China. But, the company says to best of their knowledge no credit card information or medical or clinical information was taken. The company is offering free credit monitoring and consultation. Officials are urging patients to contact the three credit reporting agencies for a free report and check for suspicious activity. Six area hospitals and scores of clinics and doctors in the area are part of the Lutheran network.
