The Idaho Department of Health and Welfare (DHW) has reported a data breach that occurred on April 18, where an unauthorized individual gained access to a payment account of a Medicaid healthcare provider.
This breach potentially exposed sensitive information, including member identification numbers, names, dates of services, and billing codes of 2,501 Medicaid recipients.
While there is currently no evidence of any information being misused, DHW has taken proactive steps to notify potentially affected individuals by mail on June 9. These individuals have also been offered identity theft protection and free credit monitoring services for a duration of one year.
DHW Director Dave Jeppesen emphasized the critical importance of safeguarding personal health and financial information for both their clients and partners.
The department is actively collaborating with Gainwell, a healthcare solutions provider, to investigate the breach thoroughly and implement necessary improvements to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Upon discovering the data breach, DHW promptly terminated the unauthorized access and promptly alerted the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) for further assistance. Individuals with questions or concerns regarding the breach are encouraged to contact the designated helpline at 800-939-4170.
