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 Heart of Texas Health Care Network (VISN 17)
Mentioned in a privacy incident report created by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs on June 26, 2012. Also cited in 122 other reports.
Report ID: SPE000000077154, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs
Reported Entity: VISN 17 San Antonio, TX
Issue:
A VA Provider attempted to contact a patient concerning his test results. The patient was not at home. The Provider informed the patient's wife of positive tests results which were sensitive in nature. Update: 07/27/12:The investigation concluded the provider did inform the patients wife of the results. The Veteran will be sent a HIPAA letter of notification.08/14/12:The DBCT reviewed and is inclined to deny your appeal. The provider should not have disclosed the information without the patient's authorization, unless:1. The wife was present at the encounter with the provider when this was discussed.2. The professional judgment of the provider would have to demonstrate that release of his test results to his wife WAS IN THE BEST INTEREST OF THE PATIENT, and not the wife. 3. You will need to check with Regional Counsel to see what your State law states in regards to disclosure of information to a spouse or significant other in regards to this issue. Based on this, we would need legal guidance as to whether or not VA can disclose.
Outcome:
Provider was counseled and re-educated on training.