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 Southwest Health Care Network (VISN 18)
Mentioned in a privacy incident report created by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs on May 11, 2012. Also cited in 228 other reports.
Report ID: SPE000000075397, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Reported Entity: VISN 18 Tucson, AZ
Issue:
This is an incident that was initially discovered by our ISO during an access audit. He found that a nurses access into other employee medical records looked suspicious. Upon further investigation, it was determined that she entered these records (because she wanted to know if they still worked for the VA), or (wanted to know how old they are). There was no business reason for accessing these records. This is a long-time VA employee who is involved in this incident. The total number of people involved is only known to be 14 at this time. We suspect there are many more. Update: 05/11/12:The employees whose medical records were accessed inappropriately will be sent HIPAA letters of notification.
Outcome:
The individual has had all computer access removed. She left employment. We notified each individual affected by this incident and provided additional training to staff..