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.
New Mexico VA Health Care System
Mentioned in a privacy incident report created by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs on November 1, 2013. Also cited in 43 other reports.
Report ID: PSETS0000096504, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Reported Entity: NEW MEXICO HCS - 501
Issue:
The Privacy Officer (PO) received notice of Veteran A reporting to his Primary Care provider that he had inappropriately received the paperwork for another Veteran (Veteran B) which had been incorrectly sent to the address of Veteran A. The information in the envelope was verified per follow-up phone call by physician provider, to Veteran A, who noted that it was a medication reconciliation form - which included Veteran B's name, date of birth, SSN, and list of medications. Patient-Veteran A returned the paperwork yesterday to the physician provider, and Patient B was called and informed of this inadvertent error in mailing and the return of the document. Veteran B stated that he did not think any harm had been done and he thanked provider for calling and informing him. Staff in front and back patient care areas were re-educated re: awareness/accountability to assure correct handling/processing and verification of information at all times - especially before mail-out. 2 RNs advised to report issue to direct nursing supervisor.
Outcome:
11/04/13: Veteran B will receive a letter offering credit protection services.