I have never been to a more incompetent doctor's office. What would you do?

[neesie03]

A few weeks ago I was misdiagnosed at the doctor's. I'd decided I was done with that practice because they'd proven themselves to be inept(not just because of that). Today, I went to pick up my medical records and they had included a copy of someone else's medical record request that included all their personal info.

When I phoned about why I would not be coming back they just said "we're only human" when I mentioned that I now had access to all this patient's personal info(ssn, dob, addr....). Would you contact the other patient to let them know how awful this practice is or stay out of it? I am thinking of filing a complaint because of my experiences with this practice.

[wookin]

That is a major HIPPA violation. Maybe you should contact the other patient and let them decide if they want to press charges.

[sati769leigh]

i would definitely let the other person know.

[werblam]

A few weeks ago I was misdiagnosed at the doctor's. I'd decided I was done with that practice because they'd proven themselves to be inept(not just because of that). Today, I went to pick up my medical records and they had included a copy of someone else's medical record request that included all their personal info.

When I phoned about why I would not be coming back they just said "we're only human" when I mentioned that I now had access to all this patient's personal info(ssn, dob, addr....). Would you contact the other patient to let them know how awful this practice is or stay out of it? I am thinking of filing a complaint because of my experiences with this practice.

Does your state have a medical board? Attorney General at least should be notified as this is a MAJOR HIPAA violation.

[puakinikini]

This is a HIPAA violation. Obviously this office needs some help understanding the seriousness of this matter, so I would call and talk to the office manager and the physician as the next step is to report them to the state board or their accrediting agency.

[jonjaktez]

They have major internal control issues too. WOW. I cannot believe the response you got.

[joshmamabear]

I agree that is HIPAA violation and have you thought,

what if your records have been passed on to another patient w/o your knowledge? you'd hope they would also let you know right?

I suggest you talk to the clinic manager, some heads may roll but this is serious matter.

[Clipper]

If I'm reading correctly, you only got their medical record request not their medical records, right? If that's the case then I wouldn't drag the other person into it. If you received their actual medical records then I'd absolutely notify them.

[tmsmalley]

If the "personal info" included name, address, social security number or insurance ID number then that was absolutely a violation of HIPPA whether you got anything else or not.

Tess

[loladooder99]

I feel for you.I have had the worst experiences with doctors atleast my family practice doctor is great.