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 a violation of California’s Health and Safety Code relating to medical privacy during an inspection that began on July 12, 2012. Also cited in 90 other reports.
Report ID: QVJ911, California Department of Public Health
Reported Entity: SANTA CLARA VALLEY MEDICAL CENTER
Issue:
Based on documentation and interview, hospital staff failed to implement a patient's right to privacy by discussing the patient's medical information in the presence of a visitor. Findings:In an interview with the hospital assistant privacy officer (Staff A) on 7/12/12, Staff A stated a medical social worker (MSW) visited Patient 1 in his room on 3/16/12 to discuss information regarding his diagnosis. During the discussion, a family member was present and could hear the interaction between the MSW and Patient 1. A hospital investigation report regarding the MSW visit was reviewed on 7/12/12. According to the report, Patient 1 complained to the hospital customer service department on 4/2/12 of a breach in medical information to an unauthorized individual. Patient 1 indicated the breach occurred on 3/16/12 when the hospital's MSW visited him to discuss his medical problems in front of a family member. Staff A stated the customer service department reported the allegation to the privacy officer on 4/2/12 and an immediate investigation was initiated. The MSW, who visited Patient 1 on 3/16/12, was located and interviewed by the hospital privacy officer. The MSW confirmed the allegation made by Patient 1.
Outcome:
Deficiency cited by the California Department of Public Health: Patients' Rights