Mount Vernon Dental Smiles (“Mount Vernon”) has become aware of a data security incident that may have affected data belonging to certain patients.
On August 24, 2023, Mount Vernon discovered that an Excel spreadsheet containing limited patient information was inadvertently attached to a patient email communication. Despite attempts to retract the emails on the same day, Mount Vernon was unsuccessful. Immediate notification was sent to the affected patients/recipients, urging them to delete the original email promptly. It’s important to note that Mount Vernon has no evidence of the misuse or attempted misuse of any potentially impacted information.
Mount Vernon is now informing affected individuals about steps they can take to safeguard their information. The potentially affected information varies by individual but may include name, date of birth, gender, physical and email addresses, telephone number, dates of service, health insurance plan name and deductible information, patient identification number, and provider name. Written notification of the incident was sent via United States mail to impacted individuals on January 19, 2024.
In response to this incident, Mount Vernon has implemented additional measures to minimize the risk of a similar occurrence in the future.
To address concerns and questions related to the incident, Mount Vernon has established a toll-free call center.
Representatives are available Monday through Friday between 9 AM and 9 PM EST and can be reached at 1-800-939-4170.
Mount Vernon’s location is 8101 Hinson Farm Rd., Alexandria, VA 22306.
FEATURED IMAGE CREDIT: Darwin Laganzon from Pixabay.
