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.
Northwest Network (VISN 20)
Mentioned in a privacy incident report created by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs on October 24, 2011. Also cited in 208 other reports.
Report ID: SPE000000067959, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Reported Entity: VISN 20 Seattle, WA
Issue:
Two letters from a provider were sent to a Patient A. One letter had the lab results for Patient A. Patient A also received the lab results for a Patient B. Patient A lives in a community residential housing unit. Patient A contacted his Case Manager regarding the receipt of Patient B's information. The Case Manager faxed the letters that were sent to Patient A that were meant for Patient B back to the VA, so that the clinic could be made aware of mis-mailing error. Patient B's name, address and lab results were disclosed. Update: 10/25/11:Patient B will be sent a notification letter, as his name, address, and lab results were disclosed inappropriately.
Outcome:
The clinic manager stated that all letters mailed to patients will now be reviewed by two staff members to ensure that the contents of the mailings pertain to the individual to whom the envelope is addressed.