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 January 18, 2013. Also cited in 225 other reports.
Report ID: PSETS0000084845, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Reported Entity: VISN 07 Tuscaloosa, AL
Issue:
Veteran A contacted the Outpatient Pharmacy on Friday, 01/18/13 at approximately 8:35 AM. He stated that he received Veteran Bs medication but did not realize it until after taking five (5) doses. He stated that he noted no issues/side effects after taking the wrong medication. Both Veterans last names were similar, resulting in Veteran Bs medication list containing his name, mailing address, phone number and the list of the names of his medications accidently being inserted in Veteran A's medication bag. This information was reported to the Privacy Officer (PO).The error and HIPAA violation was discussed with the window technician on 01/18/13. The Pharmacy Technician stated that she does not know exactly what happened to cause the mix-up other than the names being similar. The Pharmacy Technician was reminded to be vigilant about checking dates of birth and last four digits of the SSN before dispensing medications as well as using the ScriptPro check out system. Verbal counseling with documentation was completed on J01/18/13. Update: 01/21/13:Veteran B will receive a HIPAA letter of notification.
Outcome:
The Notification Letter has been mailed to the Veteran. Education has been provided as well a SOP has been revised as of February 5, 2013.