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.
STANFORD HOSPITAL
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 September 6, 2012. Also cited in 15 other reports.
Report ID: WO0G11, California Department of Public Health
Reported Entity: STANFORD HOSPITAL
Issue:
Based on interview and record review, the hospital failed to protect the right for confidential medical treatment for one of two sampled patients (1). Findings:On 9/6/12 at 10:45 a.m. during an interview with the hospital's privacy director, she stated on 6/18/12 a contracted hospital employee was processing the medical records for two patients who requested copies of their medical records. During the processing of the records, the contracted employee inadvertently attached Patient 1's request with Patient 2's and mailed it to Patient 2. On 6/20/12, Patient 2 returned Patient 1's copies to the hospital. The hospital's privacy director further stated the contracted employee made the error by working on two requests at the same time, and should have had a "clear desk" each time she worked on a new patient record request. On 9/6/12 at 11 a.m. during review of Patient 1's medical record that was sent to Patient 2, the following information was disclosed; name, medical record number, medical diagnosis, laboratory work-up, medications, and visit history. On 9/10/12 during a telephone message, the hospital's privacy director stated the contracted employee was no longer working for the hospital, and therefore was not able for interview.
Outcome:
Deficiency cited by the California Department of Public Health: Patients' Rights