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 COUNTY REGIONAL 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 November 22, 2011. Also cited in 123 other reports.
Report ID: DW7411.01, California Department of Public Health
Reported Entity: RIVERSIDE COUNTY REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER
Issue:
Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure facility staff protected the rights of Patient A by not taking a photograph of Patient A. Patient A had been assaulted and had a knife stuck in his head. This failure could interfere with the psycho-social aspects and dignity of Patient A.Findings:On November 22, 2011, an unannounced visit was made to the facility to investigate a violation of patient ' s rights.On November 22, 2011, at 2:50 p.m., the Nursing Supervisor was interviewed. The Supervisor stated a trauma patient came into the Emergency Department (ED), on November 12, 2011. Patient A had a knife stuck in his head.The Supervisor stated one physician, one Physician ' s Assistant (PA), and possibly an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), took pictures of Patient A. The PA posted the picture on a social networking internet site.On November 22, 2011, at 4:15 p.m., Patient A was interviewed. Patient A stated he was attacked by someone behind him. He stated he remembered the stabbing. Patient A stated the staff at the facility did not ask if they could take pictures.On November 22, 2011, Patient A ' s record was reviewed. Patient A was admitted to the facility on November 12, 2011, with diagnoses that included a penetrating head injury.On November 22, 2011, the facility policy and procedure titled, " Taping (Audio or video) or Photography (Still motion), " was reviewed. The policy revealed, " ...Photographing or taping (video/audio) a patient anywhere within the Moreno Valley or Arlington campus without the patient ' s written consent constitutes a violation of the patient ' s privacy rights... "
Outcome:
Deficiency cited by the California Department of Public Health: Health & Safety Code 1280