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 Sunshine Healthcare Network (VISN 8)
Mentioned in a privacy incident report created by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs on June 27, 2011. Also cited in 369 other reports.
Report ID: SPE000000064174, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Reported Entity: VISN 08 West Palm Beach, FL
Issue:
A pathology report intended for a West Palm Beach (WPB) VA physician was erroneously faxed to a private residence. The fax contained the patient's full name, medical information, and DOB . The resident contacted the Privacy Officer (PO) to report the incident. The PO requested that the information be returned to the VA immediately. The PO confirms the return of the information. Update: 06/28/11:The patient will be sent a letter offering credit protection services.NOTE: There were a total of 16 Mis-Handling incidents this reporting period. Because of repetition, the other 15 are not included in this report, but are included in the "Mis-Handling Incidents" count at the end of this report. In all incidents, Veterans will receive a notification letter and/or credit monitoring will be offered if appropriate.
Outcome:
The Privacy Officer will contact the Pathology Department to confirm the correct fax number for future use. The Privacy Officer did converse with the Pathologist at the facility. She assured the Privacy Officer that the fax number will be corrected in their system to prevent reoccurrence. A discussion was held regarding the responsibilities of staff as they pertain to privacy protection. The Pathologist will relay the information to appropriate staff.A copy of the redacted letter was attached 7/7/11 for closure.