IMPORTANT NOTICE TO OUR PATIENTS

As part of Glenwood Regional Medical Center’s commitment to patient privacy and the security of patient information, we wanted to make you aware of a recent incident that impacted the personal information of a limited number of patients who received care at the medical center.

WHAT HAPPENED

On March 5, 2020 Glenwood Regional Medical Center became aware that through the normal course of submitting proof of claims in an effort to collect from bankruptcy proceedings, invoices were attached that did not have protected health information properly redacted.  The information contained in the documentation submitted to the bankruptcy court included: Full name, home address, hospital patient account number, billing statement including type and date of services provided, medications, and amount billed for services provided.  The information did not include full or partial social security number, or any other personal financial information. The documents were submitted through a secure portal controlled by the United States Bankruptcy Courts.  We do not believe the disclosed information has caused harm to any individual or increased the risk for identify theft. 

STEPS THAT HAVE BEEN TAKEN, AND ARE BEING TAKEN FOLLOWING THIS INCIDENT

Upon learning of this issue reported by the Steward Billing Office, Glenwood Regional Medical Center promptly began an investigation. The hospital has determined this incident resulted from an unintended error.  The Billing Office has been re-trained on the importance of securing protected health information in accordance with HIPAA and Privacy regulations.   All affected patients have been notified by mail about this incident.

STEPS YOU CAN TAKE TO ENSURE THAT YOUR DATA IS NOT MISUSED

We deeply regret this situation and any inconvenience caused to patients.  We have no evidence that information involved in this incident has been improperly used. However, we encourage affected individuals to take precautions to protect the security of their personal information, including promptly reporting any suspicious activity or suspected identity theft to law enforcement.

Glenwood Regional Medical Center has the utmost concern for our patients’ privacy and takes measure to ensure that those with whom we share confidential information maintain appropriate and responsible safeguards to prevent unauthorized access to that information.  Once again, we sincerely apologize for any inconvenience that this incident may have caused any of our patients or their families.  We take the confidentiality of your information very seriously and will continue to work to ensure that a similar incident does not occur in the future.  Anyone who received a letter regarding this breach or who feels they may be part of this breach may contact Glenwood Regional Medical Center with any questions toll free at 877-302-4378 or email [email protected]