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 Healthcare System (VISN 10)
Mentioned in a privacy incident report created by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs on April 26, 2013. Also cited in 119 other reports.
Report ID: PSETS0000088569, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Reported Entity: VISN 10 Columbus, OH
Issue:
It was reported to the ISO that Patient A came to the facility and requested a wheelchair for use while in the facility. The Voluntary Service manages issuing wheelchairs and issued Patient A a wheelchair. Upon arrival to the patient's appointment, it was observed by the provider that a label was affixed to the handle of the wheelchair that contained PII for Patient B, who had been at the facility 2 days prior. The provider gave the ISO the label they peeled from the handle of the wheelchair and the ISO took it to the Privacy Officer. Update: 04/26/13:Patient B will be sent a letter offering credit protection services.05/08/13:This was determined to be HITECH reportable by VHA Privacy Office.
Outcome:
Credit Monitoring Letter. Checked Training and Awareness; however, it is more just awareness in alerting the two areas to be more diligent in even checking if patients may leave PHI laying around or "stuck" to something. S. Leister/PO