Notice of Data Incident
August 1, 2023

Dear Patients:
We post this Notice pursuant to the United States Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (“HIPAA”) to inform you about a data incident involving an unauthorized release of patient Protected Health Information (“PHI”), as that is defined by HIPAA, at Gary Motykie, M.D., a Medical Corporation and Gary Motykie, M.D. (“Practice”), a covered entity under HIPAA.

PHI, as defined by HIPAA, is information that is “created, received, maintained, or transmitted by or on behalf of the health care component of the Covered Entity.” § 164.105 (a)(2)(i)(D). Information that is created or received by a Covered Entity and that relates to the past, present, or future physical or mental health or condition of an individual; or the past, present, or future payment for the provision of healthcare to an individual is considered PHI. PHI is required to be protected when transmitted or maintained in any form by a Covered Entity. Individual identifiers (including but not limited to name, address, telephone number, fax, email address, social security number, medical record number, etc.) maintained in a designated record set along with health information (including but not limited to x-rays, images, scans, physician notes, diagnoses, treatment, eligibility approvals, claims, remittances, etc.) are collectively considered PHI.

Event Description:
On or about June 6, 2023, an initial technical analysis of the Practice’s information technology network determined an unauthorized release of PHI occurred to an unknown third party. The initial analysis determined that the unknown third party accessed the Practice’s network. It was further determined that the unknown third party acquired some of the Practice’s patient’s unencrypted PHI and that party was not authorized to do so and did so in an unlawful manner.

The information that may have been accessed or acquired during this unauthorized access included:

  • First and last name 
  • Social Security Number (if provided)
  • Address
  • Driver’s license or identification card number
  • Financial account or payment card number, in combination with any required CVV code
  • Intake forms, which may include medical information and history
  • Images taken in connection with the services rendered at our office
  • Health insurance information (if provided)
Steps Taken to Address:
Upon discovery, the Practice took the following immediate steps to address the situation:
  • Computers and servers replaced
  • Network passwords changed
  • Endpoint detection, virus, and malware detection tools and software installed on workstations and server
  • Limitations concerning Internet access
  • Access controls put in place for users based on role and responsibility
  • Server policies in place
  • Device locking mechanisms
  • Multi factor authentication enabled
  • Network segregation efforts
  • Encryption of devices
  • Additional workforce training
Risk Assessment:

The Practice conducted a risk assessment to evaluate the potential harm to potentially impacted individuals. Based on that assessment, it is determined that there is a high risk of harm. It is essential for potentially impacted individuals to remain vigilant in monitoring their personal accounts and data and promptly report any suspicious activity to law enforcement or their financial institutions.

Assistance and Resources:
Starting on or about June 22, 2023, letters were mailed to patients providing the following resources to assist the potentially impacted individuals, offering at no cost:
  • two (2) years of no cost Triple Bureau Credit Monitoring/Triple Bureau Credit Report/Triple Bureau Credit Score/Cyber Monitoring services.
  • the services also include reviewing whether Information appears on the dark web and alert the individual if such Information is found online.
  • proactive fraud assistance to help with any questions in event a potentially impacted persons becomes a victim of fraud.

Steps to Prevent Future Incidents: We deeply regret any inconvenience or concern this Incident may cause. The Practice is taking numerous steps to help prevent similar Incidents in the future. We will continue to review and enhance our security measures, policies, and employee training.

If you failed to receive your letter in the mail, and/or if there is a concern your mailing address has changed since you were a patient at the Practice, please contact 1-800-405-6108 or call our office immediately at 310-246-2355 from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm Pacific time, Monday through Friday.

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5 Tips to Prepare for Cosmetic Surgery

5 Tips to Prepare for Cosmetic SurgeryAdequate preparation for a plastic surgery procedure will dramatically improve the overall results and reduce recovery time. Marvelous, sensational, and cordial cosmetic surgeon Dr. Gary Motykie provides procedures for the breast, body and face to patients in Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, Los Angeles, and surrounding locations.

 

Choose a Suitable Time for Surgery

If you have decided to undergo an aesthetic surgery procedure, you should plan the timing of the surgery carefully. Such procedures are mostly elective, and you will have the flexibility to schedule it according to your convenience. The best time for your surgery would be a period of relatively good health.

When you feel physically and mentally fit and confident, your immune system will have the best chance for a smooth surgery and rapid recovery. If you are working, or even otherwise, choose a period of least stress when you are not distracted by other compelling preoccupations.

 

Add Vital Nutrients to your Diet

Any plastic surgery procedure will take its toll on your body. You will be in a stronger position to combat the challenge when you supplement your diet before and after surgery with essential nutrients. You will probably need high levels of vitamin A, vitamin C, zinc, selenium, and copper.

Each element plays a vital role in building immunity and wound repair. Healthy dietary supplements will help reduce your risk of infection during and after the surgery. Increase your protein intake, stay well-hydrated and keep a balanced diet for several weeks before and after the surgery.

 

Use Arnica Montana and Bromelain

For centuries, homeopathic Arnica Montana has been recognized as a treatment for bruising and swelling arising from soft tissue injury. It is available in the form of easy to dissolve tablets as well as topical form.

Bromelain is enzyme obtain from pineapple extracts. Studies have shown that compounds in Bromelain can reduce pain, swelling and inflammation following a surgery. Use these treatments in consultation with your cosmetic surgeon.

 

Avoid Aspirin, Tobacco, and Alcohol

You will have to stop using Aspirin or Aspirin-containing products for at least two weeks prior to the surgery. It is a blood thinning medication that can increase the risk of bleeding during the surgery.

It is also recommended that you avoid drinking alcohol for at least 72 hours before and after the surgery because it can suppress the immune system. Smoking can inhibit wound healing and delay recovery. The surgeon will require you to stop smoking at least two weeks before the surgery.

 

Minimize Physical and Mental Stress

Surgery can be stressful experience for many people. Optimal outcomes can be achieved when you manage to go through the surgery with minimal stress. Participate in relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga and listen to soothing music.

Seek the support of your family and friends to help you through this stressful journey. From receiving their physical assistance with household chores to having strong emotional support, having friends and family around will keep you de-stressed. Dr. Motykie receives patients from Beverly Hills, West Hollywood, Los Angeles, and nearby areas.

 

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5 Tips to Prepare for Cosmetic Surgery

To see more services and treatments provided by Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Motykie in Beverly Hills | Los Angeles and his team please visit:

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