Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center recently announced data breach, which has potentially affected 600 patient medical record. During routine review of employee access to the hospital’s electronic health records, St. Joseph’s came to know about the incident.
“Dignity Health and St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center are committed to furthering the healing ministry of Jesus, and to providing high-quality, affordable healthcare to the communities we serve.”
As per the reports, sections of patient medical records were viewed without authorization by a part time hospital employee. Facility has sent advisory letters to impacted patients.
St. Joseph’s mentioned that the records did not contain Social Security numbers, billing, and credit card information. It also added that there is “no reason to believe these patients need to take any action to protect themselves against identity theft.”
“Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center is deeply committed to protecting its patients,” the statement explained. “Any person who accesses medical records without a job-related reason is in violation of St. Joseph’s policy and appropriate action has been taken in response to this event.”
The individuals who were patients at St. Joseph’s between Oct. 1, and Nov. 22, 2016 are notified. Potentially affected information included patient medical records, demographic information (e.g. names and dates of birth), and clinical data, such as doctor’s orders and diagnostic information.
“St. Joseph’s regrets any inconvenience caused by this incident. Letters have been mailed to patients whose medical records may have been viewed and the hospital has established a call center to answer any questions they may have. “
An electronic health record (EHR) is a digital patient’s record. EHRs are advantageous as they are are real-time as well as patient-centric. It also contains broader view of patient’s record and care.
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