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 New England Healthcare System (VISN 1)
Mentioned in a privacy incident report created by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs on June 21, 2011. Also cited in 204 other reports.
Report ID: SPE000000063895, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Reported Entity: VISN 01 Boston, MA
Issue:
An incorrect copy of medical records were mailed to an outside attorney. The attorney reported the error. The records were secured by the receiving party and are being mailed back to the medical records Supervisor at the facility. Once received they will be destroyed appropriately. The problem resulted from a mistake made by the legal clerk processing the request selecting the incorrect patient without validating the date of birth and SSN. Update: 06/21/11:The Patient whose name and medical information was disclosed will be sent a notification letter.
Outcome:
HIMS Supervisors were advised that employee needed re-education regarding appropriate verification and validation procedures. Notification letter has been sent and a redacted copy is attached.