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.
SANTA CLARA VALLEY MEDICAL CENTER
Cited by the California Department of Public Health for a violation of California’s Health and Safety Code relating to medical privacy during an inspection that began on December 20, 2012. Also cited in 90 other reports.
Report ID: 4DPZ11.01, California Department of Public Health
Reported Entity: SANTA CLARA VALLEY MEDICAL CENTER
Issue:
Based on interview and record review, the hospital failed to protect the right for confidential treatment of medical records for one of two sampled patients (2). Findings:During an interview on 12/20/12 at 10:45 a.m., the privacy officer stated on 9/26/12 a lab requisition form containing Patient 2's name, medical record, gender, and the lab test ordered was given to another patient (1) by accident. An internal investigation indicated a medical assistant (MA) was discharging both patients (who had similar sounding names) from an outpatient clinic and was in a hurry. The MA inadvertantly gave Patient 2's lab requisition to Patient 1 who then left the clinic. When the breach was discovered later the same day Patient 1 was contacted and returned the requisition to the clinic.
Outcome:
Deficiency cited by the California Department of Public Health: Patients' Rights