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 Heartland Network (VISN 15)
Mentioned in a privacy incident report created by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs on January 24, 2012. Also cited in 149 other reports.
Report ID: SPE000000071009, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Reported Entity: VISN 15 Kansas City, MO
Issue:
Veteran A mailed letter to VA advising he had received Veteran B's records which included full SSN, full name, and medical information. He enclosed Veteran B's records in his correspondence. The letter was given to the Privacy Officer (PO) on 01/24/12.. The PO made phone contact with Veteran A on 01/24/12 to thank him for making us aware of the incident and for returning Veteran B's records. Additionally the PO spoke with Veteran A to obtain details such as how long he had the information in his possession and did he get the information he requested.Veteran A was very pleasant. He said he had knowledge of administrative work and said it looked as the thinner package of information got stapled to his larger package of information. He said he felt it was no big deal and just wanted to do the right thing and return the information. He said he hoped if the situation were ever reversed that the individual who received his info would do the right thing also. The PO told him it was a significant issue and that he and his actions were very much appreciated. Update:
Outcome:
ROI Clerk made error when processing both Veteran requests on same day using same printer. Human error. ROI Staff Short staffed. Clerk enclosed pa portion of Mr. P's records in with Mr/ M's records when mailing. Patient privacy, confidentiality, need to be careful when processing, etc. were reviewed and discussed with employee.