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 Southwest Health Care Network (VISN 18)
Mentioned in a privacy incident report created by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs on June 5, 2012. Also cited in 228 other reports.
Report ID: SPE000000076380, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Reported Entity: VISN 18 Phoenix, AZ
Issue:
On 06/05/12, the Pharmacy Supervisor reported to the Privacy Officer (PO) that Veteran B received a controlled medication that was intended for Veteran A by mail. Upon notification, the Pharmacy determined that the controlled medications for both Veterans were mailed on 05/31/12, however both Veterans received the other Veteran's medication.. The source of the prescription mail address mistake is under investigation.Each Veteran had the same information exposure of medication and educational materials, including the last name, first name, medication, home address, and physician. The medications for both Veterans have been reprocessed. Slow recovery of Veteran Bs medication is expected due to age of Veteran A with a caretaker. However, new medications are being shipped STAT to both Veterans. Secure mail return of incorrect medications is in progress. The Pharmacy Supervisor is monitoring full recovery of the controlled medications. No interruption of medication is expected for either Veteran. Update: 06/06/12:Both Veterans will be sent notification letters, due to Protected Health Information (PHI), being disclosed.
Outcome:
Staff failure to follow identification protocol was addressed with re-education regarding Pharmacy dispensing protocols. This was also addressed with appropriate disciplinary actions.