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.
SANTA CLARA VALLEY MEDICAL CENTER
Cited by the California Department of Public Health for a violation of California’s Health and Safety Code relating to medical privacy during an inspection that began on July 23, 2012. Also cited in 90 other reports.
Report ID: PO4Q11.01, California Department of Public Health
Reported Entity: SANTA CLARA VALLEY MEDICAL CENTER
Issue:
Based on documentation and interview, hospital staff failed to implement a patients right to privacy by providing patient information to an unauthorized individual.Findings:In an interview with the hospital assistant privacy officer (Staff A) on 7/23/12, Staff A stated a hospital echo technician (Tech 1) had sent (e-mail) information regarding a patient (Patient 1) clinic visit to a union steward on 4/11/12. According to Staff A, the hospital became aware of the situation on 4/13/12 and an immediate investigation was conducted the same day. The investigation report was reviewed on 7/23/12 and indicated Tech 1 sent an e-mail on 4/11/12 to her union steward containing a patient name and procedure performed at a hospital clinic. The report further revealed the union steward was not an authorized individual to receive such information. The act of sending patient information to an individual not associated with the hospital, violates the patient's right to privacy regarding their medical care program.
Outcome:
Deficiency cited by the California Department of Public Health: Patients' Rights