Lost computer puts 6,700 patients’ data at risk

The disappearance of a password-protected, unencrypted desktop computer from Phoebe Putney Hospital in Albany, Ga., prompted officials to notify 6,700 patients that their data may be at risk.

Patient information potentially compromised include names, addresses, dates of birth, dates of service and Social Security numbers. Hospital officials have hired an expert computer forensics company to investigate and offered a year of credit monitoring service to all affected patients. The computer remains missing.

"The hospital has taken the necessary steps to reinforce and refine staff procedures to strengthen the protection of patient information," said Audrey Pike, vice president, chief compliance officer and privacy officer at Phoebe Putney Health System, in a statement.