Covid-19 patient data shared in NHS Orkney breach

NHS Orkney inadvertently sent information on 51 patients to a local business on 15^th May. The data comprised patients’ names, addresses and the results of Covid-19 testing.

The incident has been reported to the Information Commissioner’s Office and all patients involved have been contacted to make them aware, the health board said.

Julie Colquhoun, head of corporate services at NHS Orkney, said: "Following investigation it is clear this was an isolated case of administrative error.

"NHS Orkney takes the management of patient data extremely seriously and all staff have been reminded of the correct procedures to follow. I would like to take this opportunity to apologise again to those people affected."