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NHS Norfolk has apologised after the medical records of 11 elderly patients at Norwich Community Hospital were found outside a supermarket by a member of the public.

According to reports, the documents included the patients’ names, ages and medical histories, with some containing notes about whether the person lived alone as well as mobile phone numbers.

In a statement, NHS Norfolk Community Health and Care said:

“Breaches of patient confidentially are extremely serious and this very unfortunate incident has caused us great concern.

“We would like to send our most sincere apologies to the patients and families concerned and reassure them that we have immediately launched a thorough investigation into this matter.

“We will also be reviewing the processes and systems we have in place regarding the handling of patient information and reaffirming to staff their responsibility to follow these stringent procedures to ensure patient confidentiality.”

Source:  Norwich Evening News, 20 January 2010.