CareOregon and Health Share of Oregon Notify Members About Privacy Incident
In an important update for members, both CareOregon and Health Share of Oregon have reported a privacy incident involving the unintended disclosure of personal information. The incident came to light on April 4, 2025, when CareOregon discovered that certain documents that contained sensitive member information were mistakenly mailed to an incorrect address. The documents were initially meant for a local hospital and its affiliated clinics, raising concerns over potential misuse of the information.
What Information Was Disclosed?
The disclosed information included:
- - Member first and last names
- - Health plan name
- - Member ID number
- - Internal claim number
- - Clinic or provider name
Fortunately, no Social Security numbers or financial data were included in this breach, which significantly reduces the risk of identity theft. However, it is essential for those affected to be aware of the situation and take necessary precautions.
Immediate Response from CareOregon
Upon realizing the mistake, CareOregon took swift action to investigate the breach and implement corrective measures. These steps included:
- - Improving Address Verification: New safeguards are being put in place to ensure that addresses are thoroughly verified before sending out sensitive documents.
- - Staff Training Enhancements: Training for staff members who handle member correspondence is being updated to prevent such errors from happening in the future.
- - Process Updates: CareOregon is reviewing and updating internal processes to minimize the likelihood of similar incidents occurring again.
Recommendations for Members
Despite the low risk of identity theft, CareOregon is advising all affected individuals to remain vigilant. Here are some steps members can take to protect themselves:
- - Monitor Account Statements: Regularly check your account statements from financial institutions for any unusual or suspicious activity.
- - Review Credit Reports: Members are encouraged to review their credit reports frequently. This can be done at annualcreditreport.com or by calling 877-322-8228.
- - Consider Fraud Alerts: It's wise for members to consider placing a fraud alert with one of the three major credit bureaus. This can help in case of any future identity theft.
Contacting Credit Reporting Agencies
The following contact information for the credit reporting agencies can be useful for members needing assistance:
Questions or Concerns
If members have questions or concerns regarding this incident, they can reach out to the Health Share of Oregon Customer Service at 1-888-519-3845. Both CareOregon and Health Share are dedicated to safeguarding the privacy of their members while maintaining a commitment to high-quality healthcare services delivered with integrity and transparency.
In conclusion, incidents like these highlight the importance of data privacy and the responsibility organizations hold when it comes to their members' personal information. CareOregon and Health Share's proactive response is a step towards restoring trust and ensuring that similar issues do not arise in the future.