Time is running out for hospital patients affected by a massive data breach at Tampa General Hospital—the deadline to file a claim for compensation is just 24 hours away. Eligible individuals could receive up to $7,500 from a $6.8 million settlement, but action must be taken before January 12, 2025.
What Happened?
In May 2023, Tampa General Hospital discovered a data breach that compromised the personal information of approximately 2.1 million patients. The breach exposed sensitive details, including:
- Social Security numbers
- Medical record numbers
- Health insurance information
- Treatment details
A class-action lawsuit alleged that the hospital failed to adequately protect patient data. Although Tampa General Hospital has not admitted wrongdoing, it has agreed to the multi-million dollar settlement to resolve the claims.
Who Is Eligible?
Individuals who received an official notice from the Florida Health Science Center informing them of the breach are eligible to file a claim. Different compensation tiers apply depending on the level of impact.
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Payout Details
1. Flat Rate Payment:
- Anyone affected by the breach who did not experience financial losses can claim $125.
2. Documented Losses:
- Patients who incurred expenses due to the breach—such as credit monitoring costs, bank fees, travel expenses, or communication charges—can receive up to $1,500.
3. Major Financial Impact:
- Those who suffered identity theft, fraudulent transactions, or other serious financial harm can claim up to $7,500, provided they submit supporting documents such as bank statements, receipts, or credit reports.
4. Compensation for Lost Time:
- Claimants can also receive up to $100 for time spent dealing with the breach, calculated at a rate of $25 per hour (up to four hours).
Additionally, all impacted individuals are entitled to one year of free three-bureau credit monitoring services.
Claim Deadline & Legal Implications
- Final Claim Deadline: January 12, 2025
- Final Settlement Approval Hearing: February 3, 2025
Patients who miss the January 12 deadline will forfeit their right to compensation and will be unable to take further legal action against the hospital regarding the data breach.
Individuals who opted out of the settlement before December 28, 2024, retained the right to file separate legal claims but will not receive any portion of the settlement fund.
Other Compensation Opportunities
In addition to the hospital data breach settlement, Americans who received telemarketing messages from an online pharmacy may be eligible for payments ranging from $600 to $1,500.
If you believe you qualify for compensation, act fast—time is running out to file your claim.
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