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 August 30, 2012. Also cited in 228 other reports.
Report ID: SPE000000079735, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Reported Entity: VISN 18 Phoenix, AZ
Issue:
On 8/30/2012, the Pharmacy Supervisor reported to the Privacy Officer (PO) that Veteran B called the Pharmacy Helpline to report receipt of two medications for Veteran A, received by mail. Veteran A's medications were refilled and dispensed. The two medications were a cream and an oral spray. Veteran B has indicated disposal of the items. However, the Pharmacy Supervisor will call to confirm and attempt recovery by return UPS mail. The root cause has been identified. Additional notifications and investigation to ensue. Update: 08/30/12:Veteran A will be sent a letter of notification.
Outcome:
Although materials were not recoverable, agency received assurances that they had been disposed of securely by the time of the initial report. Medications were correctly refilled and dispensed. The root cause issue of failure to follow procedure in the Pharmacy, was discussed with volunteer, who was certified pharmacy technician. This duty was reviewed and reassigned to prevent recurrence.