What would you do?

Nurses General Nursing

Published

Specializes in Oncology.

So today my docror's office mailed me results from a test I had done. I love this practice. I always get my results in a timely manner and I can easily keep my own files and make copies for other doctors I see.

In today's letter stapled at the end of my results was a letter written to a total stranger with the same first name, but totally different last name as me, about her lab results.

This is makes me feel terribly awkward. It's obviously a HIPAA violation. But I love this office. I love all the staff there and wouldn't want to get anyone in trouble. I love getting my results mailed to me and wouldn't want to discourage this practice. I could shred the results, never say a word, and no one would be any the wiser.

But it at the same time, I'm tempted to call there Monday and say, "Hey, just FYI." I would hate to have my personal info mailed to a stranger- or worse- an acquaintance. I wonder if Other Blondy is going to get her results now? I wonder if they just need to be reminded to look at what they're mailing?

So, what would you do?

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Specializes in Pediatrics, Emergency, Trauma.

I would notify the office manger and shred the results; they have a copy of the results and can resend them to the other blondy. :yes:

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Specializes in Maternity.

I would let your physician know what happened. Think of this as a med error and the opportunity to improve the system. They need to know so the can make system changes so this doesn't happen again. It does not mean you want to get anyone in trouble but by pretending it didn't happen is not protecting yourself or the other patients in this practice.

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Specializes in Nephrology, Cardiology, ER, ICU.

Agree with calling the office with an FYI. Don't think it needs to GI further than this.

All of us use electronic means to notify pts of results...much more efficient.

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Good Lord, Blondy, how could you even question what needs to be done?

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Specializes in OB-Gyn/Primary Care/Ambulatory Leadership.

That happened at our clinic, unfortunately. Different department, thank goodness. The other letter discussed a patient's positive tox screen, it had some pretty damning info. The patient who received it brought it to us and I brought it to the manager of the other department that sent it out.

They should absolutely be made aware of it so they can improve their processes.

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