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.
South Central VA Health Care Network (VISN 16)
Mentioned in a privacy incident report created by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs on May 18, 2011. Also cited in 317 other reports.
Report ID: SPE000000062678, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Reported Entity: VISN 16 Houston, TX
Issue:
On 01/19/10, in completing Veteran A's request for copies of his medical records, release of information staff (ROI) sent Veteran A's medical records to Veteran B. On 03/13/10, Veteran B sent a letter to the local Veteran Service Organization to report the incident and return the copies of the medical record. In his letter Veteran B said he also notified Veteran A. On 06/03/10, Veteran B sent a letter to the Secretary of the VA to complain about the incident. The complaint was referred to the Michael E. DeBakey (MEDVA) Medical Center Director for follow up in May 2011. The incident had not been previously reported to the Privacy Office. Update: 05/18/11:Due to full SSN and full name in the medical record, Veteran B will be sent a letter offering credit protection services.
Outcome:
This happened over a year ago and just now being reported. Error communicated to ROI staff member and reminded of importance to check work.