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 April 11, 2012. Also cited in 228 other reports.
Report ID: SPE000000073976, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Reported Entity: VISN 18 Phoenix, AZ
Issue:
Today, 04/11/12, the Pharmacy Supervisor reports that Veteran A received a prescription package for Veteran B. This was discovered by Veteran A who returned the materials to the Pharmacy. The Supervisor's initial investigation shows that Veteran B's address was incorrectly changed in VISTA to that of Veteran A. The Supervisor will provide more details regarding the event shortly. The information at risk includes Veteran B's name, address and type of medication. Update: 04/11/12:Veteran B will be sent a notification letter.
Outcome:
Although Supervisor counseled employee regarding the address entry error that triggered this event, the root cause was human error. Encouraged supervisor to address and observe root cause issues to implement a fix or system change. Supervisor does not believe that a system issue occurred or that other supportive measures are needed. Verbal counseling provided. HIPAA notification letter sent.