Improving responses to ransomware attacks in radiation therapy

Systems Engineering for Ransomware Attack Response Resiliency in Radiation Oncology

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · THOMAS JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY · NIH-10933339

This study is working on ways to help radiation oncology departments get back to treating patients safely and quickly after a ransomware attack, with input from both staff and patients to make sure everyone's needs are met.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorTHOMAS JEFFERSON UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10933339 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing strategies to ensure that radiation oncology departments can quickly and safely resume treatments after ransomware attacks. By forming a multi-disciplinary team and a patient advisory board, the project aims to create specific methods and tools tailored to the unique challenges faced by radiation oncology. The approach includes gathering insights from frontline staff and understanding the impact of such attacks on patient care, particularly for those with social vulnerabilities.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients undergoing radiation therapy who may be affected by potential disruptions due to ransomware attacks.

Not a fit: Patients receiving treatments outside of radiation oncology or those not impacted by cyber security issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more resilient radiation therapy services, minimizing treatment delays and improving patient outcomes during cyber incidents.

How similar studies have performed: While research on ransomware in healthcare is still emerging, there have been successful initiatives in other medical fields addressing cyber resilience, indicating potential for similar advancements in radiation oncology.

Where this research is happening

PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.