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.
SOUTH COAST GLOBAL 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 April 19, 2012. Also cited in 43 other reports.
Report ID: 3WQS11.02, California Department of Public Health
Reported Entity: SOUTH COAST GLOBAL MEDICAL CENTER
Issue:
Based on interview and hospital document review, the hospital failed to prevent the disclosure of Patient C's protected health information (PHI) to unauthorized individuals. In addition, the hospital failed to report the disclosure of Patient C's PHI, to the patient and the Department, within five business days of the hospital's knowledge of the breach. Findings:On 4/19/12, the hospital was made aware a breach of PHI involving Patient C had occurred.On 4/19/12, another patient was in the Emergency Department paying a deposit to the admitting clerk. The admitting clerk gave this patient a receipt for payment. However, it was discovered the receipt given to the other patient had Patient C's PHI on it.Patient C's PHI disclosed included name and account number. The hospital did not notify Patient C and the Department of the breach of PHI until 4/27/12.On 11/15/12 at 1400 hours, a conference call with the Director of Compliance confirmed the breach of PHI and the dates of notification are as documented.
Outcome:
Deficiency cited by the California Department of Public Health: Health & Safety Code 1280