Employee accessed the patient information records for 5 years at Chadron Community hospital

Chadron Community Hospital, a critical access facility in the region of Nebraska, recently found that a worker was accessing the patient information records outside of job duties for more than 5 years.

An investigation learned that compromised patient information records included addresses, names, dates of birth, clinical data from the electronic health record (EHR) system (diagnoses, orders, provider notes and test results) and insurance information. “We don’t believe the ex-employee accessed any Social Security numbers,” the hospital noted in announcement of the breach.

Chadron Community now is notifying 702 sufferers and suggesting them to monitor financial accounts and request a free credit report from Equifax, Experience or TransUnion. Extra information is being given to sufferers on what to do if there is reason to believe data was misused.

“To help stop something like this from happening in the future, we’re reviewing our privacy policies and practices, and reinforcing education with all staff regarding the significance of maintaining the confidentiality of our patients’ data and suitable care-related access to patient records,” in accordance to a statement from the hospital, which refused to comment further on the tragedy.