[BreachExchange] Golden Valley Health Centers Notifies Patients of Data Breach

[Destry Winant]

https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/golden-valley-health-centers-notifies-patients-of-data-breach-301027661.html

MERCED, Calif., March 20, 2020 /PRNewswire/ -- Golden Valley Health
Centers (GVHC) has become aware of a data security incident that may
have resulted in the inadvertent exposure of patients' health
information.  Although at this time there is no evidence that patient
information was actually accessed or viewed, or any indication of
anyone's information being misused, Golden Valley Health Centers has
taken steps to notify anyone who may have been affected by this
incident, including sending letters to anyone whose information may
have been exposed.

On March 3, 2020, GVHC determined that a limited number of patients'
information may have been contained in an email account that was
accessed by an unknown, unauthorized third party. After identifying
potentially suspicious activity, their IT staff immediately began an
investigation and engaged computer forensic experts to determine if
any information was impacted. After examining the accounts, the
investigation determined that medical information, possibly including
patients' billing and insurance information, patient referral
information, and appointment records may have been contained in an
impacted e-mail account.

While there is no indication that an unauthorized party accessed or
viewed patient information or evidence of patient information being
misused, Golden Valley Health Centers remains committed to protecting
patients' information and has taken steps to prevent a similar event
from occurring in the future, including but not limited to employee
education and training, reviewing & revising information security, as
well as privacy policies and procedures.  Letters sent to potentially
impacted patients include additional information about what occurred.
Golden Valley Health Centers has also set up a toll-free number where
patients can learn more about the incident. The call center is
available Monday through Friday between 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM Central
Time at (833) 570-0383.

The privacy and security of patient information continues to be a top
priority for Golden Valley Health Centers, they deeply regret any
inconvenience or concern this incident may have caused their patients.