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.
MARIN GENERAL HOSPITAL
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 February 18, 2013. Also cited in 63 other reports.
Report ID: 9JVI11.01, California Department of Public Health
Reported Entity: MARIN GENERAL HOSPITAL
Issue:
Based on staff interviews, clinical record and administrative document review, the hospital failed to keep personal health information confidential when Patient 25's medical records were sent to an incorrect physician's office. This resulted in a breach of confidentiality for the patient and possible unauthorized use of the information. Findings:During an interview on 2/18/13, at 10 a.m., the Director of Compliance and Ethics stated that the error occurred when an employee faxed the medical record for Patient 25 to a fax number previously on record for the physician intended to receive the information. The Compliance Director confirmed the information which was sent.Review of the facility documentation revealed the information disclosed within that record included the patient's name, medical record and account numbers, medical history and physical examination, a social history and medical information including the consulting physician's notes. The facility determined that the physician for whom the record was intended had changed offices and had failed to notify the hospital of the change in contact number.
Outcome:
Deficiency cited by the California Department of Public Health: Health & Safety Code 1280