Stolen laptop affects 34K

Washington, D.C.-based Howard University Hospital has sent a letter to 34,503 patients informing them of a potential disclosure of protected health information that occurred in late January.

A former contractor’s personal laptop containing patient information was stolen, according to a statement from Larry Warren, CEO of the hospital. “This information was downloaded in violation of Howard University Hospital policy,” he wrote.

The data varied in the types of information contained, but included some or all of the following: names, addresses, Social Security numbers, identification numbers, medical record numbers, birthdates, admission dates, diagnosis-related information and discharge dates. The information primarily covers patients who received treatment at the hospital between December 2010 and October 2011, although in some cases the data extend back to 2007.

There is no evidence that suggests any of the patients’ files have been accessed, according to the statement. The hospital said it is implementing enhanced security measures to prevent similar occurrences.