A cybersecurity incident disrupted a major hospital network in New Mexico, forcing emergency patient diversions and disrupting medical appointments across the state.

The University of New Mexico (UNM) Health System experienced the disruption on Monday, October 26, affecting its main hospital in Albuquerque and more than 30 clinics. The system operates New Mexico’s only Level 1 trauma center, which treats patients with the most serious and life-threatening injuries.

The incident forced ambulances to seek care at other hospitals, while patients were advised not to visit affected facilities unless they had confirmed arrangements. Presbyterian Healthcare Services coordinated with UNM and accepted additional patients.

The disruption highlights how cyber incidents can threaten essential healthcare services, potentially affecting emergency treatment, patient scheduling and hospital operations. The FBI confirmed it was assisting with the investigation.

Some employees reported messages claiming that patient, employee and student information had been stolen. However, the health system had not confirmed the extent of any data breach, and the investigation remained ongoing.

UNM facilities began gradually resuming operations later Monday, according to reporting by the Associated Press.

The incident underscores the importance of cybersecurity planning, backup systems and emergency response procedures for hospitals that depend on digital infrastructure to deliver critical care.