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.
Ukiah Valley Medical Center
Cited by the California Department of Public Health for a violation of California’s Health and Safety Code relating to medical privacy during an inspection that began on October 31, 2014. Also cited in 31 other reports.
Report ID: 6ZH911.01, California Department of Public Health
Reported Entity: UKIAH VALLEY MEDICAL CENTER
Issue:
Based on staff interview, clinical record and administrative document review, the hospital failed to keep protected, health information confidential when Patient 3's Discharge Summary was faxed to an incorrect (non medical) outside agency, instead of to the patient's physician. This resulted in the potential for unauthorized or illegal use of the information as well as a violation of the patient's rights. Findings:During an interview on 11/11/14 at 11 a.m., the Privacy Official stated that the incident occurred when the staff obtained a fax number from a person in the physician's office. Although the staff believed that the number was verified, it was incorrect. The Privacy Official confirmed the information whch was disclosed Interview and review of documentaton revealed that the disclosed information included the patient's name, date of birth, gender, vital signs, medical record number, date of service, physician's name and patient's diagnosis as well as a summary of care. The facility failed to implement a policy which would ensure that a fax number be verified in writing, if it is not already in the system, to prevent miscommunication.
Outcome:
Deficiency cited by the California Department of Public Health: Health & Safety Code 1280