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 Midwest Health Care Network (VISN 23)
Mentioned in a privacy incident report created by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs on January 10, 2013. Also cited in 183 other reports.
Report ID: PSETS0000084487, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Reported Entity: VISN 23 Iowa City, IA
Issue:
Patient A reported receiving Patient B's information in the mail on a research study. After further review, the employee identified four patient's information sent to an incorrect veteran through the mail. The information included the names, social security numbers and testing information. All four patients have been notified via phone and asked to return all information. Update: 01/10/13:Four Veterans will be sent a letter offering credit protection services.
Outcome:
Corrective action to prevent the incident from happening again:Mailing process will now be two stages:1) Assemble the mailing by research team member A2) Prior to sealing the mailing, research team member B will check to verify that the name on the letter, consent, HIPAA Authorization and FIT kit sample tube all match and match the name on the outside envelope.