The IT system at a large healthcare organisation has been temporarily disarmed after “suspicious activity” was discovered.

The computers at Medway Community Healthcare have been disconnected to protect data of thousands of patients and staff.

The decision taken on Monday could seriously impact its blood testing service at its clinics across the Towns.

IT teams are working around the clock to get the system up and running as soon as possible.

A statement on MCH’s website reads: “As part of our routine monitoring we have detected some suspicious activity relating to our IT systems.

“As a precaution, to protect staff and patient data, we have disconnected our systems while we investigate further.

“Our teams are working to get systems up and running and working as quickly as possible.

“Unless you have been notified otherwise, booked appointments are still going ahead as planned…”

“Please only call if absolutely necessary to ensure we can help patients most in need.

“Referral forms on the website can still be used but there will be a delay in them being processed.

“Unless you have been notified otherwise, booked appointments are still going ahead as planned.

“We apologise for any inconvenience this may cause.

“We will update you when we know more.”

MCH is based at Gillingham Business Park and runs 31 clinics across Medway – including in Hoo, Rainham and Lordswood.

It employs more than 1,300 health workers and treats 10,000 patients each month.

It is an award-winning social enterprise providing a wide range of community services, both NHS and non-NHS across health and social care.

These include urgent care, dental treatment, hospice services and care homes.

Established in 2011, it is funded by the NHS and local authorities.