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.
O'CONNOR HOSPITAL
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 March 23, 2012. Also cited in 6 other reports.
Report ID: NPTW11, California Department of Public Health
Reported Entity: O'CONNOR HOSPITAL
Issue:
Based on interview and record review, the hospital failed to protect the right for confidential medical information for 7 of 7 sampled patients. The information was sent to the wrong e-mail recipient. Findings:On 3/23/12 at 1:30 p.m. during an entity reported incident investigation, the privacy officer stated a billing department employee accidently e-mailed medical billing information intended for a colleague to an individual's e-mail address.On 3/23/12 at 1:40 p.m. a review of the e-mail was conducted. The e-mail disclosed the names, date of births, patient account numbers, and billing status of seven patients.On 3/23/12 at 1:45 p.m. a review of the hospital's policy and procedures regarding "Electronic Mail" dated 11/18/11 indicated "always double check the recipients' e-mail address before sending" an e-mail.
Outcome:
Deficiency cited by the California Department of Public Health: Patients' Rights