Document with patient details misplaced

Media Statement

On Wednesday, 04 July 2018, a paper document containing personal and some health information of 26 patients was lost in the Central Dunedin area. 

Information included patient names, towns, but not residential addresses, and some health information and histories.

The document was being carried by a doctor between Pacific Radiology offices in Bond Street and Dunedin Hospital. The document was for use in clinical discussions with other clinicians at Dunedin Hospital.

Pacific Radiology and Southern District Health Board staff have conducted a thorough search for the document. We continue to search for the document and its loss has been reported to police. The privacy commissioner has also been notified.

Southern DHB and Pacific Radiology have called all affected patients and sent follow-up letters delivered by courier. 

We are undertaking a full investigation of how this happened with an aim to prevent it from occurring again. Once the investigation is complete patients will receive a copy of the formal report and have a chance to ask questions surrounding the findings. 

Statement attributable to Chris Fleming, Chief Executive, Southern DHB:

We apologise unreservedly for the loss of this document. We take patient privacy very seriously and will undertake a full investigation with the aim of preventing a recurrence.

We have contacted all patients who have been affected and will meet with anyone who wishes to discuss the matter in greater detail. We will also provide these patients with the findings of our review once it is complete.