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.
VALLEY CHILDREN'S 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 December 6, 2012. Also cited in 40 other reports.
Report ID: S7KQ11, California Department of Public Health
Reported Entity: CHILDRENS HOSPITAL CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
Issue:
Based on staff interview, clinical record and administrative document review, the facility failed to protect confidential Patient Health Information (PHI) when Patient 1's discharge instructions were given to Patient 2 upon discharge. This failure resulted in unauthorized access of confidential patient information. Findings:On 12/6/12 at 1:52 p.m. Privacy Officer (PO) stated on 11/21/12 the facility became aware of a possible privacy breach. The facility's internal investigation found Patient's discharge instructions were given to Patient 2. The parents of Patient 2 recognized the error and contacted the Emergency Room staff and returned the discharge package to the facility. The PO stated it was the responsibility of the Emergency room staff to ensure the correct discharge instructions were given to the correct Patient. Patient 1's PHI contained name, date of birth, date of service, medical record number, account number, and confidential clinical information. The Hospital's Policy and Procedure number PR1016 dated 8/11 and titled "Confidentiality indicated: "[Hospital] will maintain adequate administrative, technical and physical safeguards to protect the privacy and confidential information from unauthorized use or disclosure whether intentional or unintentional."
Outcome:
Deficiency cited by the California Department of Public Health: Patients' Rights