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.
HEMET VALLEY MEDICAL CENTER
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 August 7, 2013. Also cited in 39 other reports.
Report ID: VDMW11, California Department of Public Health
Reported Entity: HEMET VALLEY MEDICAL CENTER
Issue:
Based on interview and record review, the facility failed to prevent the unauthorized access and/or disclosure of Patient A's medical/private information.This failure had the potential to result in the misuse of the patient's private/medical information.Findings:An interview was conducted with the facility's PO (Privacy Officer), on August 7, 2013, at 10:15 a.m. The PO stated on July 26, 2013, she was informed that while performing her duties, an EVS (Environmental Services) worker had become aware of a family member's (Patient A) admission to the facility.The PO stated the EVS worker posted the following notification on Facebook (a form of social media): "Prayers please out to our cousin "...(Patient A's name) sr." Hes here at the hospital..."The facility policy titled "HIPAA POLICY...Breach of PHI (Public Health Information)- Notification) created date November 20, 2010, indicated "..."Individually identifiable" means that the medical information includes or contains any element of personal identifying information sufficient to allow identification of the individual, such as patient name..."The policy further indicated, "... "Unlawful or Unauthorized Access" means the inappropriate access, review, or viewing of patient medical information without a direct need for medical diagnosis, treatment, or other lawful use..."
Outcome:
Deficiency cited by the California Department of Public Health: Health & Safety Code 1280