A possible breach of protected health information may affect 2,500 Arizona moms and their babies. The information comes from the state’s newborn screening program.

Every baby born in Arizona is screened for certain conditions, and the Arizona Department of Health Services sends hard copies of billing information for those tests to a third-party.

About a month ago, a parcel filled with that info did not make it to its destination. Health department spokeswoman Holly Ward said the parcel includes information about mothers and their babies.

“It could include their names, their dates of birth, addresses, phone numbers, health insurance information, and in some cases, social security numbers,” Ward said. “This information can be used, unfortunately, to steal identities.” 

Ward said the health department has sent notices to moms who could be affected, and they should be received by next week. She said there’s no evidence that any of this protected information has been accessed or used. 

People with questions can contact the Arizona Department of Health Services at (800) 548-8381 or [email protected].