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 Southwest Health Care Network (VISN 18)
Mentioned in a privacy incident report created by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs on March 4, 2011. Also cited in 228 other reports.
Report ID: SPE000000059120, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Reported Entity: VISN 18 El Paso, TX
Issue:
Wife of a Veteran A filed privacy complaint as she had received copy of Explanation of Benefits form which included one other Veteran's (Veteran B) full last name, initial of first name, and full social security number as related to reimbursement for care she provides to her paralyzed husband under the Bowel and Bladder Program for Spinal Injury Program. The Privacy Officer (PO) reviewed copy of forms, verified with wife of Veteran A that entire envelope of information was copied and provided to the PO for corrective action and to help with straightening up the reimbursement check. The information was provided to the Facility Chief, Financial Services for review and corrective action. Update: 03/04/11:Veteran B will receive a letter offering credit protection services.
Outcome:
Supervisor for Finance area conducted fact-finding and mitigation/corrective action after determination that clerical error was sent to Austin for processing of claim with EOB printed out as filed by the clerk at our facility. This was a data entry error; issue discussed by supervisor with the clerical employee who processed the payment in error and process re-education for more attention to detail on payment processing. As per above determination, letter of notification and offer of credit monitoring prepared for Director's signature to be sent to Veteran whose information was inadvertently disclosed. Also note of thanks to Veterans wife who brought to our attention as complaint with opportunity for us to improve processes and correct our mistake.