Microsoft outage disrupts UK health services and public agencies

A global Microsoft outage disrupted hospitals, GP surgeries, pharmacies and other public services across the UK, as well as businesses and schools. The Guardian reported that hundreds of hospitals, GP surgeries and community health services were affected. Staff had trouble accessing email and patient information, and some used paper records. The BBC reported disruption to NHS communication and referrals, while NHS England said patients should attend appointments unless told otherwise.

Pharmacies warned that communication problems could mean longer waits and delays to some prescriptions, according to the BBC. The Guardian reported that a union said ambulance and NHS trusts had faced a serious impact. The BBC said emergency and life-threatening callouts appeared unaffected, though referrals were backing up. Microsoft said services were gradually being restored and reported no evidence of a cyberattack. UK government agencies said they were assessing the effects and using contingency arrangements.