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.
RIVERSIDE COUNTY REGIONAL 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 February 23, 2012. Also cited in 123 other reports.
Report ID: 8XE411, California Department of Public Health
Reported Entity: RIVERSIDE COUNTY REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER
Issue:
Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to ensure protected health information (PHI) for Patients A through E were not faxed to the wrong department. This failure resulted in the unauthorized disclosure of Patients A through E's PHI, which created the potential for unauthorized use.Findings:On February 23, 2012, at 8:30 a.m., an unannounced visit was made to the facility to investigate a breach of PHI.On February 23, 2012, at 9:30 a.m., the Compliance and Privacy Officer was interviewed. The Officer stated a physician from a medical group requested faxes containing PHI for five patients, to be sent to his office. A staff member in Medical Records transposed two of the numbers. The faxed information contained the names, dates of birth, medical record numbers, and a copy of history and physical examinations.On February 23, 2012, the facility policy and procedure titled, "FAX and other Written Communication," was reviewed. The policy indicated, "...Written communication sent by facsimile (FAX) shall use the FAX cover sheet..."
Outcome:
Deficiency cited by the California Department of Public Health: Health & Safety Code 1280