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.
Northwest Network (VISN 20)
Mentioned in a privacy incident report created by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs on June 27, 2012. Also cited in 208 other reports.
Report ID: SPE000000077252, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Reported Entity: VISN 20 Portland, OR
Issue:
A deceased Veteran's widow came to the Release of Information (ROI) Office at the Portland VAMC to request copies of the medical records that had been disclosed to her husbands father. Upon review of the fathers FOIA request dated 12/09/11, it was discovered that the Veterans entire electronic medical record had been disclosed to him without substance abuse treatment notes being removed as required by 38 USC 7332. The facility Executive Office and Regional Counsel have been notified of the violation. Update: 06/28/12:Widow of Veteran A will be sent a notification letter.
Outcome:
Records releases involving 38 USC 7332 information will be discussed regarding the appropriatness of disclsoure of this information before permitting full disclosure.