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 Heart of Texas Health Care Network (VISN 17)
Mentioned in a privacy incident report created by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs on December 10, 2012. Also cited in 122 other reports.
Report ID: PSETS0000083440, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Reported Entity: VISN 17 Temple, TX
Issue:
After requesting information from the Release of Information section, Veteran A reported that they had received the medical information of Veteran B in the mail. Veteran A reported that Veteran B lived close to his address and that he personally delivered the information to Veteran B. The Privacy Officer (PO) contacted Veteran B, who confirmed receipt of the information. At that time Veteran B reported that they had received the information of Veteran A on a CD labeled for Veteran A. The PO requested and Veteran B agreed to return the information back to the facility today 12/10/2012. Update: 12/17/12:Both Veterans will be sent offers for credit protection services.
Outcome:
The PO identified the ROI employees who processed the information and forwarded in error and determined that both incidents were preventable. The PO discussed with the employees both individually, attended the ROI Staff Meeting and addressed with all staff members, the importance of verifying the accuracy of the VA Sensitive information prior to its release. The PO also recommends that the ROI Section develop a process to assist in its quality control effort and incorporate that process into its Internal SOP. Credit Monitoring Letters have been forwarded to the Veterans who were impacted by the disclosure error. The PO requests that the ROI Supervisor contact HR for the appropriate sanctions. The information forwarded in error was retrieved and destroyed.