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 Southeast Network (VISN 7)
Mentioned in a privacy incident report created by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs on March 14, 2011. Also cited in 225 other reports.
Report ID: SPE000000059514, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Reported Entity: VISN 07 Columbia, SC
Issue:
On 3/7/2011, Veteran A received an Electromyography (EMG) letter from the Dorn VA Medical Center. Veteran A was surprised to see that the letter, which was intended for another Veteran, contained his address. On the morning of 3/8/2011, Veteran A contacted the Patient Representatives Office by phone to report the incident. Veteran A is concerned that his address is being used by Veteran B. The Privacy Officer was notified on 3/11/2011 and is investigating the reported incident. The information disclosed: Full name, test result, and the name of the clinic. When: The Veteran received the envelope by mail on 3/8/2011 and returned the letter on 3/10/2011. Update: 03/14/11:Veteran #2 will receive a notification letter. If it is discovered that Veteran #1's data was also disclosed, he will be sent a letter of notification as well.
Outcome:
Employees are being re-educated on the need to safeguard patient information.