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 January 14, 2013. Also cited in 228 other reports.
Report ID: PSETS0000084644, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Reported Entity: VISN 18 Phoenix, AZ
Issue:
Today, 1/14/2013, Pharmacy reports to PO that supplies intended for Veteran A were received in the mail by Veteran B. Veteran B contacted facility; he received his own supplies as well. Upon report, recovery efforts for the Veterans supplies (lubricating packets) and Veteran sensitive documents containing: Veteran first name, last name, home address, physician, and symptoms, were provided to Veteran B in a prepaid Pharmacy mailer. Veteran As supplies were reprocessed and mailed again. Root cause: Same Pharmacy technician who processed both supply mailing packages on 1/4/2012. Veteran As initials are JR, Veteran Bs initials are RJ. Other contributing factors to be reviewed. ROC of investigation is in process. Additional notification and investigation to ensue. Update: 01/15/13:Veteran A will be sent a notification letter.
Outcome:
Rx and materials were recovered by Pharmacy. Root cause: Failure to follow Veteran identity protocol. Re-education with staff involved by Pharmacy Supervisor regarding Veteran identity protocols in the Pharmacy prior to dispensing meds was reemphasized. New shift assignments in this area. HIPAA notification letter to Veteran by Director upon investigation conclusion. Ticket closure.