Search Privacy Violations, Breaches and Complaints
This database was last updated in December 2015 ago and should only be used as a historical snapshot. More recent data on breaches affecting 500 or more people is available at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Breach Portal.
VA Heart of Texas Health Care Network (VISN 17)
Mentioned in a privacy incident report created by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs on September 12, 2012. Also cited in 122 other reports.
Report ID: SPE000000080078, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Reported Entity: VISN 17 Temple, TX
Issue:
While conducting a walkthrough of the facility, the Privacy Officer (PO) discovered hardcopy personal information pertaining to two employees was left unsecured in a meeting room. The information was in the form of a progress note containing the full name, DOB, full SSN and DX of Employee A and a DA Form containing the full name, partial SSN and military personnel information of Employee B. The PO confiscated the unsecured information. Upon contacting Employee B, it was identified that the information was provided to the Supervisor. Update: 09/12/12:Employee A and B will be sent a letter offering credit protection services.
Outcome:
The PO met with the Supervisor who failed to protect the sensitive information and PO provided education on the importance of safeguarding VA sensitive information in accordance with VA Handbook 6500. And to always secure and safeguard information from misuse or improper disclosure.