Orthopedics Rhode Island announced a data breach that compromised sensitive patient information, encompassing personal and medical details. They advised affected individuals to keep an eye on their accounts for any indications of fraud.
What happened
Orthopedics Rhode Island, Inc. (“Ortho RI”) recently reported a data breach that compromised the personal and medical information of patients after an unauthorized party gained access to the company’s computer network. The incident, which occurred between September 4 and September 8, 2024, was identified after Ortho RI detected unusual activity on September 7. Following this discovery, Ortho RI acted quickly to secure its systems and launched a thorough investigation into the breach.
According to a filing with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office for Civil Rights, the breach exposed sensitive information, including names, addresses, dates of birth, health insurance claims, billing details, and medical records, which encompassed diagnoses, medications, test results, and x-ray images. After reviewing the compromised files, Ortho RI sent data breach notification letters to individuals impacted by the security incident on November 6, 2024.
Read also: What are the HIPAA breach notification requirements
Going deeper
According to JD Supra, the investigation revealed that unauthorized access to Ortho RI’s network allowed an external party to access sensitive files containing private patient data. In response to the breach, Ortho RI worked to determine which records were affected and what specific information was accessed for each individual. Though the exact details of the breach are still unfolding, Ortho RI has committed to keeping affected individuals informed as more information becomes available.
Orthopedics Rhode Island, based in Wakefield, Rhode Island, was established in 2015 through the merger of three orthopedic practices. Today, the healthcare provider operates eight facilities across the state, employing over 288 people and generating about $18 million in annual revenue.
Why it matters
Healthcare data breaches pose a unique and serious threat due to the depth and sensitivity of the information at stake. Unlike other data types, medical records can have lasting implications for patient privacy and security, potentially leading to identity theft, insurance fraud, or misuse of medical information. The Orthopedics Rhode Island breach underscores the increasing cybersecurity risks within healthcare and highlights the need for healthcare providers to strengthen data protection measures.
What to look for
If you received a data breach notification letter from Orthopedics Rhode Island, staying alert for signs of potential identity theft or misuse of your personal information can prevent further harm. Here are some key areas to monitor:
- Unusual billing statements: Keep an eye on your medical bills and health insurance statements. Look for any services or treatments you didn’t receive, as these could be signs of medical identity theft.
- Unexpected insurance claims: Review your insurance claims carefully. Unauthorized parties may use stolen medical information to file false claims under your name, which can impact your insurance coverage and premiums.
- Credit report alerts: Check your credit reports for any unfamiliar accounts or sudden changes in your credit score. Unexplained loans, credit cards, or other accounts could indicate identity fraud.
- Suspicious emails or calls: Be cautious about phishing attempts. Hackers may use your information to send convincing scam emails or make phone calls asking for further details under the guise of a legitimate company.
- Unauthorized prescriptions or health services: If someone uses your information for medical services, prescriptions may appear in your health records that you didn’t authorize, posing a potential risk to your own healthcare and insurance status.
- Bank account and credit card activity: Regularly monitor your financial accounts for unauthorized purchases or transfers. Even small, unusual charges can be a red flag.
For added security, consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze on your accounts. These steps can help protect your identity and minimize the risk of financial or medical fraud following the Ortho RI data breach.
See also: HIPAA Compliant Email: The Definitive Guide
FAQs
What should I do if I receive a notification letter?
If you receive a notification, review it carefully to understand what information was compromised. Consider taking steps like monitoring your credit, checking your health insurance and medical statements, and reviewing your financial accounts. You may also consider placing a fraud alert or credit freeze on your credit reports.
What if I notice suspicious activity after the breach?
If you observe any unusual activity on your credit report, health insurance claims, or bank statements, report it immediately. Contact your financial institutions, file a police report if necessary, and consider enlisting the support of a data breach attorney for additional protection.
How long should I monitor my credit and financial accounts after the breach?
Experts generally recommend monitoring your credit reports and accounts for at least 12 months after a breach. Since some fraudulent activity may appear later, long-term vigilance is advisable, especially for healthcare-related breaches.
Tshedimoso Makhene
