Medical Staff

Robbery exposes data for 700 patients

Executive Briefings Digest, February 7, 2006

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Robbers stole six computers from a family medical practice in Squirrel Hill, PA, exposing the personal information of approximately 700 patients, The Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports. The break-in occurred on December 17 at the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) facility.

The six computers contained patients' names, Social Security numbers, and dates of birth. They did not store any health-related data.

"While we don't know whether the thieves will use this information, we at UPMC believe that it is our obligation to inform you that the theft occurred and to address next steps to help to prevent identity theft," stated a letter that UPMC mailed to the patients.

Source: Briefings on HIPAA



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