New Mexico Oncology Hematology Consultants

The covered entity (CE), New Mexico Oncology Hematology Consultants, reported the November 13, 2013, theft of a laptop computer from its Albuquerque office. The unencrypted laptop contained the protected health information (PHI) of 12,354 individuals including patients' names, medical record numbers, dates of birth, addresses, telephone numbers, clinical testing results, diagnoses, treatment information, and insurance information. Following discovery of the breach, the CE strengthened its security program by conducting a new risk analysis, implementing additional physical safeguards, and encrypting mobile devices. It also revised administrative policies and retrained staff. The CE provided breach notification to HHS, the media, and affected individuals. OCR obtained assurances that the CE implemented the corrective actions noted above.