Protecting Your Medical Records: A Guide to Data Breach Prevention and Response

Medical records contain some of the most personal and sensitive information about an individual. When these records are stolen, the consequences can be severe. This article provides guidance on what to do if your medical records are breached, along with preventive measures and steps to ensure your information is protected.

Steps to Take if Your Medical Records Are Breached

1. File a Police Report
Quickly alert the authorities to the potential security breach. This not only helps in identifying the perpetrator but also serves as an official record of the incident. Ensure you document the names and contact information of the individuals you speak to, which can be useful in the investigation and legal process.

2. Notify the Affected Entities
After filing the police report, it's crucial to inform the entities that hold your medical records. These include:

The three major credit bureaus: Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax The local driver’s license office The IRS (Internal Revenue Service) The Social Security Administration Your bank Your medical insurance provider

3. Additional Actions for Financial Information
If your financial or banking details were compromised, your bank may suggest closing your existing accounts and opening new ones. They will also work with you to replace all credit and debit cards. This is a critical step to minimize further financial damage.

4. Register for Identity Theft Protection Services
Identity theft can cause significant distress and ongoing issues. By registering for services with major credit bureaus and other relevant organizations, you can set up alerts and monitor your information for unauthorized transactions. This can provide you with early warnings and help prevent further misuse of your data.

Personal Experience: A Lesson in Security Breaches

My nephew faced a similar challenge when his personal information was stolen from the VA Hospital in Tampa. While he was recovering from injuries sustained during a suicide bombing attack in Afghanistan, his information fell into the wrong hands. The stolen data was then used by local crack dealers to place unauthorized orders online. The investigation revealed that the individual responsible was a maintenance worker who had no legitimate reason to access my nephew's file. The worker was subsequently fired, charged, and found guilty.

Report the Breach to the Department of Health and Human Services

For medical practitioners, hospitals, and other entities that handle protected health information (PHI), it is essential to notify the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) about any breaches. This helps in understanding the legal implications and ensures compliance with health information privacy laws.

Conclusion

Although the loss of medical records can be alarming, taking proactive steps can help mitigate the impact. Always keep your personal information secure, inform relevant entities in case of a breach, and stay vigilant about potential threats. This ensures that your health and financial well-being are protected against the risks of identity theft and data breaches.

Keywords

medical records data breach privacy protection