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)

VISN 20 Walla Walla, WA

Mentioned in a privacy incident report created by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs on December 9, 2011. Also cited in 208 other reports.


Report ID: SPE000000069531, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

Reported Entity: VISN 20 Walla Walla, WA

Issue:

On 12/06/11 a VA employee found several printed patient orders in the lobby. These copies were mixed in with the suggestion cards located on the window ledge where the Medical Service Administrators (MSA) sit. This was discovered at 7:10 AM on 12/06/11 when the employee checked the suggestion box for patient suggestions. It was noted that when the top card was turned over, patient information was printed on the card. To replenish the suggestion cards, cards are copied and then cut to size and placed in their holder. It was in this holder that patient information was found,mixed with suggestion cards. Update: 12/12/11: The Privacy Officer (PO) is being faxed the information today, and should have the number of affected Veterans/Patients by close of business 12/12/11. 12/13/11: Two Veteran's information was found in the comment cards. Therefore two Veterans will receive a letter offering credit protection services.

Outcome:

The employee sent an email to a Supervisor asking her to inform the MSAs not to place any information etc, in the lobby until it is reviewed for personally identifiable information (PII) or protected health information (PHI).

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