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.
Northwest Network (VISN 20)
Mentioned in a privacy incident report created by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs on December 14, 2012. Also cited in 208 other reports.
Report ID: PSETS0000083715, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Reported Entity: VISN 20 Seattle, WA
Issue:
As part of an approved research protocol, the VA sends out information to participants, a type of homework, and instructions on how to get ready for their upcoming appointment. The research department just discovered that one subject was sent the packet of a different participant. Primary Investigator (PI) is not aware how this discovery was made or if a check has been conducted to see if the other subject also received wrong information (if they got switched). PI will provide more details on Monday when research staff returns to office. Synopsis: Veteran A received the packet of Veteran B. Veteran A notified VA research staff of mis-mailing. Veteran A is enrolled in the same research study as Veteran B. Privacy Officer will update this ticket on Monday once more information is received. Update: 12/17/12:Due to medical information being exposed, Veteran B will be sent a notification letter. At this time it is not known if other Veterans have been affected, if other Veterans have been affected appropriate action will be taken as necessary.
Outcome:
Staff were reminded to double-check all mailings prior to sending. An mailing SOP was suggested by the Privacy Officer.