Mother of teen who died ‘deeply hurt’ that NHS staff may have accessed son’s records inappropriately
The mother of a deceased teenager is seeking answers after discovering that NHS staff may have inappropriately accessed her son's medical records years after his death. The Bristol Foundation NHS Trust is investigating the incidents and has referred itself to the Information Commissioner's Office.
Why it matters
Raises significant concerns regarding patient data privacy and the ethical conduct of medical professionals within the NHS.
Image source, Paula McGowan Image caption, Oliver McGowan, pictured here with his mother Paula, died in 2016 after being prescribed anti-psychotic medication at Southmead Hospital in Bristol
The mother of a teenage boy who died in hospital has said she is "deeply concerned and hurt" after learning his medical records may have been accessed inappropriately for years after his death.
Paula McGowan, whose 18-year-old autistic son Oliver died in 2016, was told that at least five members of staff at Bristol Foundation NHS Trust may have accessed his records without permission as recently as this year.
Three nursing staff are under formal investigation, while a doctor who no longer works for the trust has self-referred to the General Medical Council. Another member of staff is having their case reviewed separately.
The trust said it was "deeply sorry" for any stress and anxiety caused.
Get smarter about the news
Sign up free for a feed built around what you actually care about, Dive Deeper research on any story, and the full text of every article.
Create free accountAlready have an account? Sign in