As if anyone really needed a reminder that breaches of even one patient’s privacy matter, just look at all the headlines this morning. How many reports do you see about allegations that an employee at The London Clinic where Kate Middleton, the Princess of Wales, was hospitalized improperly attempted to access her medical records? The Daily Mirror broke the story:
The world renowned hospital where the Princess of Wales was treated has launched an investigation over claims staff attempted to access her private medical records.
Bosses have launched a probe into the claims Kate’s confidentiality was breached while she was a patient in The London Clinic in January. At least one member of staff was said to have been caught trying to access the 42-year-old’s notes. The allegations has sent shock waves through the hospital in Marylebone, Central London, which has a reputation for discreetly treating of the royal family, former presidents, PMs and celebrities.
One insider revealed: “This is a major security breach and incredibly damaging for the hospital, given its unblemished reputation for treating members of the Royal Family. Senior hospital bosses contacted Kensington Palace immediately after the incident was brought to their attention and assured the palace there would be a full investigation. The whole medical staff have been left utterly shocked and distraught over the allegations and were very hurt that a trusted colleague could have possibly been responsible for such a breach of trust and ethics.”
Read more at The Daily Mirror.
What a shame everyone’s privacy isn’t treated with such seriousness and diligence.