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 violations of California’s Health and Safety Code relating to medical privacy during an inspection that began on December 20, 2012. Also cited in 90 other reports.
Report ID: TXDV11.02, California Department of Public Health
Reported Entity: SANTA CLARA VALLEY MEDICAL CENTER
Issue:
Based on interview and record review the hospital failed to protect the right for full consideration of privacy concerning medical care for one of one sampled patient (1). Findings:During an interview on 12/20/12 at 10:15 a.m., the privacy officer stated that on 9/15/12 a physician (PA) employed by the hospital verbally disclosed Patient 1's medical information to a visitor (VA). VA was known to Patient 1 but was estranged. The disclosure of information did not occur in the patient's room or in front of the patient. Subsequently Patient 1 learned the medical information had been disclosed. Patient 1 was upset because she had not given consent for the disclosure of information to VA. Patient 1 confronted PA on 9/15/12, who admitted to her he had disclosed medical information to VA. After an internal investigation, PA stated he thought VA was a concerned family member and failed to verify Patient 1 had given consent to release medical information to VA.On the above same day and time a review of a transcript of an interview conducted with PA on 9/26/12 indicated he disclosed to VA details of Patient 1's planned diagnostic tests and potential diagnosis. On 12/20/12 a review of the 11/2009 hospital policy and procedure titled "Disclosure of Health information to Family and Friends" indicated the patient's approval must be obtained prior to disclosure of medical information to family members or friends. The policy indicated all work force members were responsible for following the policy. Information disclosed included the patient's medical plan and potential diagnosis.
Outcome:
Deficiency cited by the California Department of Public Health: Patients' Rights