Protecting Your Child’s Information: Florida Pediatric Associates Data Breach Raises Awareness

The importance of safeguarding children’s data cannot be overstated. Recently, Florida Pediatric Associates (FPA) announced a data breach impacting patient information.

While FPA’s own systems were not compromised, a data security incident experienced by a third-party vendor, Bowden Barlow Law, potentially exposed some patient data. Let’s understand the details of this incident, the potential consequences, and explore what you can do to protect your child’s information in the digital age.

A Third-Party Breach Affects Patient Data

According to FPA, Bowden Barlow Law, a vendor they utilize, experienced a potential data security incident in late December 2023. This incident may have resulted in unauthorized access to some patient information from FPA. While the full scope of the breach is still under investigation, FPA identified that patient and guarantor information, including names, dates of birth, account numbers, Social Security numbers, health insurance information, claims information, and treatment information, could be potentially affected.

Protecting Your Child’s Data: What You Can Do

While this data breach raises concerns, there are steps you can take to protect your child’s information:

1. Review the Breach Notification: If you are a patient of FPA, carefully review the notification you receive from the organization. This notification will detail the specific information potentially compromised and any recommended actions.
2. Monitor Your Accounts: Be vigilant and monitor your child’s health insurance statements and explanation of benefits (EOBs) for any unusual activity.
3. Consider Placing a Fraud Alert: Contact your child’s health insurance provider and inquire about placing a fraud alert on their account. This can help prevent unauthorized charges.
4. Review Credit Reports: It’s advisable to obtain a free copy of your child’s credit report (if available in your region) and monitor it for any suspicious activity. You can typically access a free credit report annually from each of the three major credit bureaus.
5. Strong Passwords & MFA: Ensure strong and unique passwords are used for all online accounts, especially those related to your child’s healthcare. Wherever possible, enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for added security.
6. Beware of Phishing Attempts: Phishing emails and calls are common tactics used by cybercriminals to steal personal information. Be cautious of unsolicited communication claiming to be from your child’s healthcare provider or insurance company.
7. Data Minimization: When interacting with healthcare providers, understand what data is being collected and why. If possible, inquire about minimizing the data collected from your child.
8. Talk to Your Children: Educate your children about cybersecurity best practices, especially as they grow older and engage with online healthcare platforms.
9. Stay Informed: Stay updated on the latest cybersecurity threats and data breaches. Many healthcare providers offer resources and guidance on protecting your child’s health information.

Conclusion

The Florida Pediatric Associates data breach highlights the importance of data security in the healthcare industry. By following these recommendations, you can take control of your child’s digital footprint and minimize the risks associated with data breaches. Remember, vigilance and proactive measures are essential in safeguarding your child’s sensitive information in today’s digital world.