An extensive audit has been concluded and confirmed a breach of information through the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority (WRHA).

The WRHA announced that an extensive audit has confirmed a breach of the Personal Health Information Act (PHIA). 

“Access to our emergency data information system is vital for nurses and staff working within the emergency department to ensure they have access to and can share information about the provision of care at any point in their shift,” said Lori Lamont, acting chief operating officer for the WRHA in a statement. “The only time that information may be used outside of the emergency department, however, is for patient transfers – which did not occur in this instance.”

A nurse with previous access obtained the information inappropriately while working at Grace Hospital back in March. A manager told the nurse to stop accessing the information on March 12, 2018, while a thorough audit was completed on April 9, 2018. The audit confirmed that 1,756 individuals were affected.

“We are contacting all individuals who were affected and encourage them to connect back with our privacy office should they have any concerns or questions about the information they receive,” assured Lamont. “We are very sorry for the distress this breach may cause any individuals, who will receive notification in the coming weeks.”

The audit determined that no one was targeted specifically and no other systems were accessed. The individual was up-to-date on the latest training and later indicated they did not keep or retain any information.