As University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC) navigates ongoing challenges with clinic access, a local business leader is urging patients to proactively safeguard their personal and financial information. The call to action comes amid concerns about potential identity theft, particularly given the sensitive data held by healthcare institutions and a past data breach at UMMC.
The advice centers on routinely checking credit reports and considering a credit freeze, a step that can significantly limit a thief’s ability to open new accounts in a patient’s name. This recommendation isn’t simply a precautionary measure; it’s a response to the increasing attractiveness of medical facilities to those seeking to commit identity theft, due to the wealth of personal details they collect.
“First of all, check your credit report,” said a local leader, emphasizing the importance of vigilance. “Build sure that you’re not having someone who’s tried to open a line of credit on you, a new line of credit. Another thing is to check your banking statements, check your credit card statements closely.” Identity thieves often initiate with small, test charges to validate stolen information, making consistent monitoring crucial.
The concern isn’t unfounded. In 2013, UMMC experienced a significant data breach involving the theft of a laptop containing the electronic protected health information of approximately 10,000 individuals. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) subsequently required UMMC to pay a $2.75 million fine for multiple violations of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) related to the incident. An investigation by the Office for Civil Rights of HHS revealed that UMMC was aware of vulnerabilities in its IT system as early as April 2005. The Department of Justice provides resources for victims of identity theft.
Understanding the Risks to Personal Information
Medical records contain a treasure trove of personally identifiable information – dates of birth, Social Security numbers, and even mothers’ maiden names – all data points frequently used in password protection and identity verification. This makes healthcare organizations prime targets for cybercriminals. The local leader warned that this information, once compromised, can be exploited for a variety of fraudulent activities.
While a credit freeze can seem cumbersome, requiring temporary lifting for legitimate credit applications, it’s considered a highly effective security measure. “It could make it cumbersome to freeze and unfreeze,” the leader acknowledged, “sort of like trying to call one of these things that gets thousands of calls a day. It may capture you a little longer to do it. They’re about as secure as anything you’re going to have.” The delay in noticing fraudulent activity – often 30 to 60 days – underscores the importance of proactive measures.
Support for UMMC Patients and Recovery Resources
UMMC, the state’s only academic medical center and level I trauma center, has established a triage line at 601-815-0000 to assist patients with prescription refills and urgent care needs during this period of disruption. Baptist Medical Center has also stepped in to temporarily increase staffing to support UMMC and manage potential surges in patient demand.
Recovering from identity theft can be a lengthy process, potentially taking 18 months to two years, according to the local leader. The U.S. Government’s official website on identity theft provides comprehensive guidance on reporting and recovery steps, including contacting the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) and the three major credit reporting agencies: Equifax (888-766-0008), Experian, and TransUnion.
The FTC’s IdentityTheft.gov platform offers a step-by-step recovery plan and resources for filing an Identity Theft Report, which can be used to dispute fraudulent accounts and protect your credit. Learn more about getting help at IdentityTheft.gov.
As UMMC works to restore full services, vigilance regarding personal information remains paramount. Patients are encouraged to regularly monitor their financial accounts and consider the added security of a credit freeze.
Disclaimer: This article provides informational content only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional financial or legal advice. If you believe you have been a victim of identity theft, consult with qualified professionals for personalized guidance.
What steps are you taking to protect your personal information in light of these concerns? Share your thoughts in the comments below.