Medical files found dumped in public bin

THE HSE is investigating how highly sensitive patient records from the Midland Regional Hospital in Mullingar were found dumped in a public bin on the grounds of Roscommon Hospital — almost 80 kilometres away.

The records, which were discovered by a woman walking her dog, are believed to relate to around 100 patients who have attended the Midlands facility’s emergency department since May of this year.

They are understood to contain private data such as patients’ names, dates of birth, addresses, contact details and medical conditions, meaning the dumping could leave people vulnerable to fraud or personal identity theft.