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.
QUEEN OF THE VALLEY MEDICAL CENTER
Cited by the California Department of Public Health for violations of California’s Health and Safety Code relating to medical privacy during an inspection that began on November 2, 2012. Also cited in 17 other reports.
Report ID: SLLZ11.02, California Department of Public Health
Reported Entity: QUEEN OF THE VALLEY MEDICAL CENTER
Issue:
Based on interview and record review the facility failed to report an intentional breach, of Patient 1's medical information, to Patient 1's Representative, at their last known address, within 5 days of the disclosure being detected by the health facility. This failure violated the provisions of California Health and Safety Code 1280.15 (b) (2). Findings:The California Department of Public Health was notified, on 4/12/11, that an intentional breach of protected health information occurred between 4/4/11 and 4/6/11.During an interview on 11/2/12 at 3:30 p.m., Administrative Staff A stated that the facility did not provide written notification, regarding an intentional breach of Protected Health Information (PHI) to Patient 1's Representative after Patient 1's death, on 4/6/11, and the conclusion of their investigation, the same day. Administrative Staff A further stated that, "Patient 1 was an adult not under the care of a family member and we were not aware we must notify a family member".Patient 1 was admitted to the facility, on 4/4/11, intubated and unresponsive, never gained consciousness before her death on 4/6/11, and lacked the capacity to make health care decisions during her stay in the facility.Documentation on 1/16/13 confirmed that a notification letter was sent to Patient 1's Representative and signed by Administrative Staff A on 1/16/13. Notification to Patient 1's Representative was required by 4/13/11. Patient 1's Representative was sent the notification letter on 1/16/13, six hundred and forty four days beyond the notification timeframe.
Outcome:
Fine imposed and deficiency cited by the California Department of Public Health: Health & Safety Code 1280