Hospital privacy blunder shocks patient

Private information containing the names of patients and their illnesses were carelessly printed on the reverse of a Royal Oldham Hospital ward welcome sheet - leading to fears of a confidentiality breach.

The discovery was made by a gynaecology ward patient who was “appalled” the sheet used on the ward when a patient’s personal information was visible.

The mother-of-one, who wished to remain anonymous, immediately informed hospital staff that the names of 16 patients, bed numbers and diagnoses had been printed for anyone to see.

“I couldn’t believe it when I turned the sheet and saw all the information,” she said.

“It was very sensitive and personal information. I think it is appalling that this happened.”

The woman said: “When I found the paper I panicked and left and took it with me to ensure it didn’t get into the wrong hands. I was worried my information could be left where anyone could see it. I spoke to my GP about getting treatment instead.”

The hospital has launched an investigation into how the error occurred.