An HIV victim whose condition was revealed to others in an NHS Highland privacy breach has claimed the board is failing to be transparent over disclosing information.
The patient, who provided his details to The Press and Journal but wishes to remain anonymous, has deemed the information under the initial Significant Adverse Event Review (SAER), which was provided to the Scottish Government and Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO),“inaccurate” and raised a complaint.
The man, who had his confidential details revealed in an email sent to approximately 37 people, is now calling on NHS Highland to release the results of the investigation.
He said: “It appears they have gone into total lockdown and are trying to cover up what actually went on.
“They need to be transparent with the Scottish Government, the ICO and other patients.”
The data breach took place in June in an email invite to patients to join a support group at Raigmore Hospital.
NHS Highland has previously said it “deeply regrets” the breach of confidentiality and that the recommendations of the SAER were being implemented as a “matter of priority”.
The man has also been left “majorly concerned” as his medication runs out in the coming weeks and, he claims, officials have been“reluctant” to assist in transferring his treatment to another board.
“I cannot trust NHS Highland any more and wish for my treatment to be provided by another health board.
“It was their data breach that has led to this scenario yet they are not helping me at all to continue my treatment.
“It really does feel as if they are sticking two fingers up.”
An NHS Highland spokesman said the outcome of the complaint had been shared with the Scottish Government, adding: “The board has been transparent with those affected by the incident and advice has been made to one individual as to how their care could be transferred.
“In addition, an offer has been made for the individual to discuss care needs with a senior clinician.”
A Scottish Government spokesman said they have responded to the patient concerned, adding: “NHS Highland is working to build trust with the affected patients and this is an ongoing process.”
The ICO confirmed it had received the patient’s complaint.
