Twenty-eight computers containing thousands of patients’ records were stolen from a Belfast hospital, causing concerns about the security of patient data. These computers were used for staff training on the new Encompass digital healthcare system, which is being rolled out across health trusts. Belfast Health Trust assured that the stolen units could not access patient records, and no data breaches were identified. Despite this, concerns over the trust’s security measures were raised, especially after the theft remained undetected for several months.
The theft was reported to the police on March 5, although it is believed to have taken place over an extended period.
According to Belfast Health Trust, the missing computers were held in reserve for additional training sessions and do not affect current staff’s ability to use the Encompass system. The trust stated that some training sessions had to be rescheduled due to the loss of equipment. While no breaches were found, the trust acknowledged that security protocols might need reevaluation.
Police investigations into the theft are ongoing, with the PSNI confirming that 28 computer base units and power cables were taken from a hospital on Lisburn Road. Colin McGrath, an SDLP MLA, expressed concern over the trust’s security practices and urged a reassessment of measures to prevent future thefts. He questioned how a large number of computers could be stolen without detection.
He warned about the potential for future incidents involving patient or staff belongings.
McGrath emphasized that health trusts must prioritize security to ensure that sensitive materials, including patient records, are properly protected. He raised concerns that the theft indicated larger systemic issues within Belfast Health Trust’s security protocols. McGrath’s comments suggest that without urgent action, public trust in the security of the health trust’s operations could diminish significantly.
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