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.
Northwest Network (VISN 20)
Mentioned in a privacy incident report created by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs on August 22, 2011. Also cited in 208 other reports.
Report ID: SPE000000066007, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Reported Entity: VISN 20 Seattle, WA
Issue:
An Audiology Clinic appointment letter was given to Veteran A by the clinic scheduler. Veteran A brought it back to the Audiology Clinic after realizing it was incorrect on 08/18/11 at approximately 4:00 PM. The letter was meant for Veteran B who was seen at the clinic the same day. Veteran A only had access to Veteran B's name and appointment times. Update: 08/23/11:Veteran B will receive a letter of notification.NOTE: There were a total of 16 Mis-Handling incidents this reporting period. Because of repetition, the other 15 are not included in this report, but are included in the "Mis-Handling Incidents" count at the end of this report. In all incidents, Veterans will receive a notification letter and/or credit monitoring will be offered if appropriate.
Outcome:
The clinic clerk was educated regarding the best practices for ensuring that patients only receive their own appointment and medical information. Clerks will now double-check and verify that they are providing the correct information to the right individual.