The University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB) School of Nursing has recently notified 1,655 patients about a significant privacy breach involving a study recruitment postcard. The incident, which occurred in Birmingham, Alabama, involved a postcard intended to encourage participation in a survey related to breast cancer diagnosis. Unfortunately, the postcard inadvertently displayed patients’ protected health information (PHI), including their names, addresses, and inferred diagnoses, leading to an unintended exposure of sensitive data.
UAB’s press release explained that the breach came to light on May 29, 2024, when the university realized that the postcard’s design had compromised patient privacy. In response, UAB has issued a formal apology to the affected individuals, acknowledging the seriousness of the breach and outlining the steps the institution is taking to address the issue. The university emphasized its commitment to protecting patient information and has assured that measures are being implemented to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The affected patients reside in several counties, including Blount, Jefferson, Shelby, St. Clair, and Walker. UAB has reached out to these individuals with a notification letter detailing the nature of the breach and the information at risk. The letter also provides guidance on how to address any concerns or questions related to the incident. Patients who received the postcard and have questions are encouraged to contact UAB at 1-833-706-6324 for additional support.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges healthcare institutions face in safeguarding patient information. UAB’s swift acknowledgment and response to the breach reflect the importance of transparency and accountability in managing privacy concerns. The university’s commitment to rectifying the situation and enhancing data protection protocols serves as a crucial step in rebuilding trust and ensuring the security of patient information moving forward.
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