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.
VA Southeast Network (VISN 7)
Mentioned in a privacy incident report created by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs on March 30, 2011. Also cited in 225 other reports.
Report ID: SPE000000060197, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Reported Entity: VISN 07 Columbia, SC
Issue:
On 3/21/2011 Veteran As wife called the Dorn VA Medical Center Pharmacy to inform them that she received a medication package addressed to her husband by mail. Upon opening the package, she realized the package contained medication intended for her husband and another Veteran. The two Veterans have the same last name, and both had refrigerated items. The Pharmacist reissued Veteran B the correct medication by mail. A formal letter has been prepared for the Acting Medical Center Directors signature, requesting that Veteran A return the medication to the Dorn VAMC. The information disclosed: Veteran #2 full name, address, name of provider, and the prescription name and instructions. When: The error apparently occurred on 3/21/2011. Update: 03/30/11:Veteran B will be sent a notification letter.
Outcome:
Staff is being re-educated on the need to safeguard patient information, and the importance of being vigilant when disbursing medication.