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.
RIVERSIDE COMMUNITY HOSPITAL
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 October 4, 2012. Also cited in 64 other reports.
Report ID: 6RPB11.01, California Department of Public Health
Reported Entity: RIVERSIDE COMMUNITY HOSPITAL
Issue:
Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure the PHI (protected health information) of Patient B remained confidential. This failure resulted in the unauthorized disclosure of post surgical discharge instructions meant for Patient B, to be given to Patient A.Findings:An interview was conducted with the Manager of Outpatient Surgery (MOS) on October 4, 2012, at 9:45 a.m. The MOS stated Patient A was transferred to a skilled nursing facility following surgery, however Patient B's discharge information was mistakenly sent with Patient A.A review of Patient B's discharge information was conducted. The information reflected Patient B's name, medical record and account numbers, diagnosis, and specific post surgical instructions.A review of the facility policy, "Safeguarding Protected Health Information (Effective Date: November 1, 2011)," was conducted. The policy indicated, "The facility must take reasonable steps to safeguard and protect PHI. The facility must identify and utilize appropriate administrative, physical, and technical safeguards in order to protect PHI from inappropriate and/or unauthorized access, use, and/or disclosures."
Outcome:
Deficiency cited by the California Department of Public Health: Health & Safety Code 1280