Questions & Answers
Breach of the patient confidentiality by the hospital
The hospital I visit provided my information to someone calling pretending to be my husband.
I don't have a husband. Now, the hospital says they only provided my appointments, but even then it's still a violation of my privacy.
And they won't let me listen to the phone record. What can I do?
Dear questionnaire,
Thank you for reaching out to me on this.
At the outset, I am very sorry for the situation you are in and completely understand that you feel violated of your rights.
You did not mention which Emirate this hospital is located, as all Emirates are governed under certain Medical rules and regulations.
However, the Ministry of Health Code of Conduct 1988 governs the medical practitioners, pharmacists and other healthcare professionals licensed in the UAE (nurses and laboratory technicians, for example), require complete confidentiality of information related to patients (including medical records, health problems and personal information related to the patient) and prohibits disclosure without the patient’s prior informed consent.
Even though this rule does not govern the receptionist who divulged your appointment related information, the hospital would still be bound to protect information due to the Principal-Agent principle.
I would suggest you make a written request to the hospital and obtain their written response. Upon receipt of the same, escalate the matter to the Ministry for their indulgence.
I trust you will find this appropriate.
Regards,
Hari Wadhwana
052-9495731
