Gardaí to investigate data breach at Tallaght Hospital

Gardaí have been asked to investigate how sensitive patient information from Tallaght Hospital got into inappropriate hands.

The Data Protection Commissioner is also investigating what the hospital is describing as unauthorised access and disclosure of patient information.

The acting Chief Executive of Tallaght Hospital, John O'Connell said the hospital had been using the Phillipine based Uscribe to transcribe medical records.

That contract was terminated in May and a new service provider contracted with new policies and procedures was put in place.

A subsequent evaluation of the Uscribe service found that some letters dictated did not come back transcribed.

Mr O'Connell said it is a very serious matter which the hospital is determined to resolve as quickly as possible.