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.
HEMET VALLEY MEDICAL CENTER
Cited by the California Department of Public Health for violations of California’s Health and Safety Code relating to medical privacy during an inspection that began on June 28, 2013. Also cited in 39 other reports.
Report ID: HIWI11.03, California Department of Public Health
Reported Entity: HEMET VALLEY MEDICAL CENTER
Issue:
Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to notify Patient 1 of the unauthorized disclosure of his protected health information (PHI), in writing, within five business days after the disclosure had been detected by the facility. This resulted in a delay in the notification of Patient 1 of the unauthorized disclosure of his PHI. Findings:On June 28, 2013, at 1:30 p.m., The Privacy Officer (PO) was interviewed. The PO stated Patient 1 and Patient 2 were both treated in the Emergency Room on June 5, 2013. She stated an area pharmacy notified the facility's Patient Advocate the same day that Patient 2 had a prescription meant for Patient 1. However, the Patient Advocate did not notify the PO of a possible breach until June 17, 2013. The PO stated she was aware there was a requirement to notify the patient within five business days, but thought that meant five days from when she became aware of it, instead of when the facility became aware of it.Patient 1 was informed of the disclosure of her PHI via a letter dated and mailed on June 21, 2013, to her last known address (nine days after the required notification of five business days).The facility policy and procedure titled "Breach of PHI - Notification Requirements" dated November 2010, indicated, "The Hospital shall also report in writing, by facsimile and certified mail, return receipt requested, any unlawful or unauthorized access to, or use or disclosure of, a patient's medical information to the affected patient or the patient's representative at the last known address, no later than five (5) business days after the unlawful or unauthorized access, use, or disclosure has been detected by the Hospital. ..."
Outcome:
Deficiency cited by the California Department of Public Health: Medical Breach