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 Heart of Texas Health Care Network (VISN 17)
Mentioned in a privacy incident report created by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs on October 23, 2012. Also cited in 122 other reports.
Report ID: PSETS0000081510, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Reported Entity: VISN 17 Dallas, TX
Issue:
It was reported that while walking in her neighborhood, 54 CDs and 5 EKG reports were found in a one block area. The CDs were labeled with the patient's name, and some included the DOBs, SSNs, ward, physician, etc. The data was found by a University of Texas Social Work (UTSW) student, and was turned in to UTSW Police who is securing it until VA Police picks it up. Update: 11/05/12:Twenty (20) individuals will receive notification due to Protected Health Information (PHI) being exposed.
Outcome:
All staff reminded to go through the proper channels when there is a need to transport PHI from a controlled environment...otherwise, taking PHI off station is prohibited.Notification letters sent to those involved.