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 28, 2012. Also cited in 225 other reports.
Report ID: SPE000000073439, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Reported Entity: VISN 07 Columbia, SC
Issue:
On 3/28/2012, Veteran A received a reminder by mail of an upcoming Spartanburg Primary Care Clinic appointment. The Veteran was surprised to see a second appointment letter, which was intended for another Veteran included in the same envelope. Veteran A contacted the Privacy Officer by phone to report the incident. The Spartanburg Primary Care Supervisor is being notified and Veteran B's appointment letter will be mailed to the correct address. A formal letter requesting that Veteran A return Veteran B's appointment letter to the Dorn VAMC is being mailed. The information disclosed includes full name, partial social security number, address, and the name of the Spartanburg Primary Care Clinic provider. The Veteran received the envelope by mail on 03/28/12. Update: 03/28/12:Veteran B will be sent a notification letter.
Outcome:
Staff is being re-educated on the need to safeguard patient information.