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 November 9, 2011. Also cited in 228 other reports.
Report ID: SPE000000068489, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Reported Entity: VISN 18 Phoenix, AZ
Issue:
A VA Nurse Manager reported to the Privacy Officer (PO) that he received a letter on 11/07/11 from Veteran B, a former patient subsequent to disciplinary action regarding a current employee. Veteran B indicated that his letter was in defense of the employee. The name of Veteran A, who is a current patient, is noted in letter. Veteran B references the alleged event, but notes that Veteran B's care was good. Veteran B requested that his support for the employee be considered in disciplinary decisions regarding Veteran A.The Nurse Manager documented a follow-up call to Veteran B on 11/08/11. Veteran B knew details of allegations of sensitive issues regarding Veteran A. He states that he barely knew Veteran A while a patient. He maintains a friendship with the employee, not Veteran A. Today, the Nurse Manager interviewed the employee. The Nurse Manager asked how Veteran B knew about the situation regarding Veteran A. How was Veteran B able to write a letter about Veteran A with these details? The employee indicated that she had a personal relationship with Veteran B. The employee's representative advised no further discussion and the interview concluded. Update: 11/10/11:Veteran A will be sent a notification letter.
Outcome:
On the basis of the privacy breach, made disciplinary suggestions to supervisor and HR based on the HR Table of Penalties. Appropriate disciplinary actions pending. HIPAA Notification Letter provided to Veteran Patient.