Pomona Valley Hospital Data Breach: Know Your Rights

The November 2023 Security Incident

In late November 2023, a security incident occurred involving unauthorized access to a patient-management tool used by Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center (PVHMC). This tool was managed by a vendor, which in turn, utilized a subcontractor to store the underlying data. The breach was discovered when the tool became unavailable, prompting an investigation by the vendor and the subcontractor. It was later confirmed that an unauthorized third party had accessed and encrypted the data. This incident was isolated to the vendor's system and did not impact PVHMC's internal network or its ability to provide medical care.

Information Exposed

• Names
• Medical record numbers
• Dates of birth
• Clinical details such as:
• Allergies
• Diagnoses
• Medications
• Doctors' notes

Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center's Response

Upon confirmation of the cyberattack, PVHMC acted swiftly to assess the extent of the data affected and to identify the individuals impacted. The hospital has ceased using the services of the implicated vendor and their subcontractor for storing patient data. Furthermore, a third-party expert was engaged to thoroughly investigate the breach and bolster security measures to prevent future incidents.

Steps to Take if You Are Affected

If you believe your information may have been compromised in this breach, it is crucial to stay vigilant and monitor for any suspicious activities. While the exposed information does not typically allow for direct financial fraud, it's advisable to consider the following actions:

• Place a fraud alert on your credit files. This alerts creditors to verify your identity before opening new accounts in your name. You can place a fraud alert by contacting any one of the major credit bureaus.
• Consider placing a security freeze on your credit reports, which prevents credit, loans, and services from being approved in your name without your consent. Contact each credit bureau individually to set up a security freeze.

For more detailed information on how to secure your personal information, visit the Federal Trade Commission's website.

About Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center

Founded in 1903, Pomona Valley Hospital Medical Center is a prominent not-for-profit healthcare facility in California. Accredited by the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations, PVHMC offers a wide range of specialized services including oncology, cardiac care, and women’s health, among others. The hospital is staffed by over 800 physicians and employs more than 3,000 individuals dedicated to providing high-quality healthcare.

For further details or inquiries about the data breach, you may contact PVHMC at 844-670-6752, available Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 9 PM Eastern Time.

Read the full Notice to Consumers here.