Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital Patient Information Found in Trash
Quick Facts
- Date: 12/19/2007
- Institution: Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital
- Type of Incident: Unauthorized Disclosure
- Number Affected: 30
- Source: Pogo Was Right
- Abstract Source: Evening News 24
Abstract
Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital is currently trying to determine how medical files on 30 patients ended up in a trash bin this month. The files, found by woman in Bowthorpe, contained names, ages, hospital number of sick people as well as details of care, medical history and discharge information. NNUH has launched an investigation into the loss of these files, which are believed to belong to a nurse. In addition, hospital officials are reminding all staff members that security measures are to be followed at all times. The hospital plans to take the next 48 hours to personally contact each of the patients affected by this breach. According to Sandie Johnson, a spokesperson for the Norfolk and Norwich Patient and Public Information Forum, “We are extremely concerned to learn that any patient record has left the hospital, which is strictly against all N&N policy. The fact that, not only were these records removed from the hospital, but that they appear to have been disposed of in such a cavalier fashion shows a complete disregard for the basic tenant of patient/doctor relations and patient confidentiality."
