If you've received a notice from R1 RCM Inc., or if you're a patient of St. Rose Dominican Hospital de Lima, a Dignity Health hospital, it's important to understand the recent data breach that may have affected your personal health information (PHI). R1 RCM, a business associate of Dignity Health, disclosed that unauthorized access to PHI occurred, potentially including sensitive data such as names, contact information, dates of birth, Social Security numbers, service locations, clinical/diagnosis information, and patient account or medical record numbers.
On November 17, 2023, R1 RCM became aware of the breach when they discovered that PHI was in the possession of an unauthorized third party. After a thorough investigation, on January 11, 2024, it was determined that personal data was indeed at risk.
Immediate Action: If you believe your information has been compromised, it's crucial to act swiftly. R1 RCM has arranged for two years of complimentary identity monitoring services through Kroll, a leader in risk mitigation. You can enroll in these services by visiting Kroll's enrollment page. Please note that you must activate these services by the deadline provided in your notification letter.
Monitoring Your Credit: Stay vigilant by regularly reviewing your account statements and credit reports. You're entitled to one free credit report every 12 months from each of the three major credit bureaus. Obtain yours at www.annualcreditreport.com or by calling 1-877-322-8228.
Placing a Fraud Alert or Credit Freeze: Consider adding a fraud alert to your credit files, which alerts creditors to verify your identity before opening new accounts in your name. Alternatively, a credit freeze will prevent creditors from accessing your credit report altogether without your permission. This can be an effective way to prevent identity theft but may delay any legitimate applications for credit in your name.
To place a fraud alert or credit freeze, contact the three major credit bureaus:
For more detailed guidance on protecting your identity and legal rights, you can reach out to the Federal Trade Commission or your state Attorney General. The FTC provides resources for identity theft victims, and you can file a complaint if necessary. For residents of Massachusetts, you can find more information and support on the Massachusetts Attorney General's website.
R1 RCM understands that this situation may lead to many questions and concerns. They have set up a dedicated helpline at (866) 495-4603, available Monday through Friday, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Central Time, excluding major U.S. holidays, to address any additional inquiries you may have.
By taking the appropriate steps and utilizing the resources provided, you can help safeguard your personal information and mitigate the risks associated with this data breach. Remember, staying informed and proactive is key to protecting your identity and financial well-being.