A large healthcare provider with an extensive network of endpoints experiences a significant ransomware attack...

Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation (ECIH-aligned):

In healthcare environments, endpoint security incidents have direct implications for patient safety and care delivery. The ECIH Endpoint Security module stresses that endpoint incident handling is critical not only for data protection but also for maintaining essential services.

Option A is correct because healthcare organizations depend on endpoint availability for diagnostics, treatment, and patient records. Ransomware that disrupts endpoints can delay care, endanger patients, and cause cascading operational failures. ECIH highlights that maintaining business and operational continuity is the primary driver for robust endpoint response in critical sectors.

Options B and D are important considerations but are secondary outcomes of the incident. Option C is unnecessary and impractical as an immediate rationale.

ECIH consistently emphasizes that in sectors like healthcare, endpoint IH&R frameworks exist first and foremost to ensure uninterrupted service delivery, making Option A correct.