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Kevin Stent / Stuff
An investigation is ongoing at Wellington Hospital. In the photo: your emergency department.
It is being investigated how a member of the public was able to enter an operating room at Wellington Hospital under false pretenses while undergoing surgery.
Capital and Coast DHB Medical Director John Tait confirmed the violation occurred last week.
“We have apologized to the affected patient and family, and we wish to take this opportunity to apologize again,” he said.
The matter had been reported to the police and reported to the Privacy Commissioner’s Office, he said.
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A University of Otago medical student who was allegedly involved in the incident was banned from DHB facilities.
Rosa Woods / THINGS
CCDHB Medical Director Dr. John Tait said security systems and protocols were being reviewed.
“We launched an investigation as soon as the violation was discovered. We understand that the actions of a medical student were involved in the infraction. We have discussed this with the University of Otago, banned the student from entering DHB facilities while investigations are ongoing, and the student’s matter is now in the hands of the University, ”Tait said.
“We take patient privacy and our safety responsibilities very seriously, and no breach of this nature is acceptable,” he said.
“We are now reviewing our security systems and protocols to minimize the risk of a re-violation.”
A spokeswoman for the University of Otago said the accusations were being taken “very seriously” and a formal investigation was launched as soon as the university was alerted to the possible involvement of one of its students.
“With the issues under investigation, the university cannot confirm or discuss the details of the allegations, except to note that the student allegedly involved is currently unable to undertake clinical placements.”
“Rest assured that the University of Otago has very clear expectations for its students in hospital settings and has rigorous processes in place to address any potential breaches of those expectations.”
