ABC Action News, in an ongoing investigative series, discovered hundreds of private patient records in dumpsters outside of medical offices. The report notes that while identity theft is a primary risk of careless disposal, there can be other consequences. Several of the documents contained information related to diagnoses and prescribed treatments—material that could adversely impact the ability to obtain insurance, if they ended up in the wrong hands. A state representative contacted for the report was also shocked to discover the relatively minor (or nonexistent) consequences local businesses face for careless disposal.
“At the state level in terms of the disposal of records there really isn’t any guidance there,” said State representative Kevin Ambler. ABC
ABC Action News intends to follow up on its investigation.
Source: ABC Action News – Tampa, FL