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 April 25, 2012. Also cited in 228 other reports.
Report ID: SPE000000074604, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Reported Entity: VISN 18 Phoenix, AZ
Issue:
The Pharmacy Supervisor contacted Privacy Officer (PO) to notify that a prescription for Veteran A went to Veteran B. Veteran B notified the Pharmacy that he received this on 04/23/12. He also received his correct medications. The Veteran cannot return the medication until 05/07/12. Arrangements for receipted mail return of the prescription is in progress. Preliminary root cause analysis suggest that this was a labeling error. Further notifications and investigation to ensue. Update: 04/25/12:Veteran A will be sent a notification letter.
Outcome:
Secure arrangements were made for the return of the medication and Veteran information. Review of the pharmacy's protocols for dispensing medication were not followed by a staff member. Counseling and education regarding this protocol and the impact upon patient privacy and safety were provided by the Pharmacy Supervisor. Continuous quality monitors are in place in the Pharmacy to prevent this from happening again.