SW Family Medicine Data Breach Affects 36,959 People

On October 24, 2024, South West Family Medicine Associates, PA, a medical practice recognized for its emphasis on care coordination and long-term healing relationships, discovered a significant data breach. This breach has affected a total of 36,959 individuals across the United States, with 31,127 of those residing in Texas and 3 in Maine.

The breach exposed a wide range of sensitive consumer information, including:

• Names
• Addresses
• Social Security Numbers
• Driver’s License numbers
• Government-issued ID numbers (e.g., passport, state ID card)
• Medical Information
• Health Insurance Information
• Dates of Birth
• Medication Information
• Medical History
• Lab Results
• Diagnosis/Condition Information
• Passwords
• Personal Identification Numbers
• Access Codes
• Numbers or Information used to access financial resources
• Passport Numbers
• Mother's Maiden Name
• Unique Private Key used to authenticate or sign an electronic record
• Tax Identification Numbers
• Identity Protection Personal Identification Numbers
• Health Insurance Policy Numbers
• Subscriber Information

The breach was publicly disclosed on November 12, 2024, and the company has notified consumers via U.S. Mail and postings on their website. You can find the detailed disclosure on the Maine Attorney General's website and the Texas Attorney General's website. Additionally, the Massachusetts Attorney General's website provides further information.

South West Family Medicine Associates, PA's Response

In response to the breach, South West Family Medicine Associates, PA has taken immediate steps to address the situation. They have notified affected individuals and are likely working with cybersecurity experts to investigate the breach, although specific details of their response actions have not been disclosed.

Steps to take if you are affected by the data breach

If you have been notified that your information was part of this breach, it is crucial to take the following steps to protect yourself:

1. Monitor Your Accounts: Keep a close eye on your bank accounts, credit card statements, and any other financial accounts for suspicious activity.
2. Change Passwords: Immediately update passwords for online accounts, especially if you use the same password for multiple sites.
3. Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Where possible, activate two-factor authentication for an added layer of security.
4. Check Your Credit Report: Obtain a free credit report from each of the major credit bureaus and review them for any unauthorized accounts or inquiries.
5. Consider a Credit Freeze: If necessary, you can place a credit freeze to prevent new accounts from being opened in your name.
6. Contact Your Health Insurance Provider: Inform them of the breach and ask for guidance on monitoring your health insurance account for fraudulent claims.