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 December 8, 2011. Also cited in 228 other reports.
Report ID: SPE000000069460, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Reported Entity: VISN 18 Phoenix, AZ
Issue:
Today, 12/08/2011, the Pharmacy Supervisor reported to the PO that 2 medications were mailed in error to a Veteran. The Veteran called the Helpline to inquire about medication mailing status of 2 ordered medications. At that time, the address error was identified. Medications were mailed to an incorrect address within the past 2 weeks. Both medications were refilled and re-sent to corrected address. Recovery of medications/materials are hindered by not knowing identity of addressee. Initial review of the mailing address shows that facility staff changed this 9/24/2011. Review of the materials by the department Chief indicates that this material was provided by VACO. Further notification and investigation to ensue. Update: 12/29/11:Veteran A will be sent a notification letter.
Outcome:
Investigation conducted with VACO Privacy Officer indicates that they now also have the correct address. No audit trail in their software to determine who sent us this address. No further information available to identify the error. However, provided the VACO PO with the possible types of errors to watch for in the future. He will inform his staff. Quality controls reviewed with in-house staff in key address departments. Quality controls reviewed with other agency.