Australian Hospital Apologizes for Patient Data Leak on Instagram

Royal Darwin Hospital (RDH) has issued an apology to about a dozen pregnant patients whose confidential medical details were shared on an Instagram account. The hospital confirmed that an information sheet and a video of a staff meeting, which included patient health discussions, were posted on the account, which has over 28,000 followers.

Management sent apology letters to the affected individuals, stating that the visible information included names, hospital record numbers, ward and bed numbers, consultant names, presenting problems, medical history, investigations, and management plans. The hospital acknowledged the distress and concern this breach of privacy may have caused.

The Instagram account was allegedly linked to Dr. Neda Mogharehabed, an overseas medical observer visiting the hospital. Dr. Mogharehabed, who was reportedly working in the obstetrics and gynecology unit, did not confirm if she posted the content but stated she did not intend to disclose any patient information. She told the ABC that she received no training from RDH regarding social media use and patient confidentiality and could not verify the origin or circumstances of the images.

One of the affected patients, ABC Radio Darwin producer Shanelle Tobin, received a message from someone who had seen her information on the account. Ms. Tobin, who was 17 weeks pregnant at the time, described the appointments as personal, involving discussions about her previous pregnancy, sexual health, and potential experiences with domestic violence. She expressed a feeling of violation upon realizing the account's large following.

Despite the incident, Ms. Tobin stated her intention to continue receiving care at RDH for her pregnancy and birth, emphasizing her trust in the hospital staff despite the actions of one individual.

NT Health and Dr. Mogharehabed have been contacted for comment.