Patients' medical records stolen

Medical records of more than 15,000 patients have been stolen from a GP surgery during a burglary, a primary care trust said.

The thieves took a safe with computer back-up tapes inside containing the personal information of 15,396 people registered at St Paul's Surgery in Winchester, Hampshire.

Hampshire Primary Care Trust said it would be writing to patients to tell them of the theft last weekend but stressed it would be difficult for anyone to access the information.

"We would like to reassure patients registered at the surgery that the chances of anyone being able to do anything untoward with the tapes are very small indeed," it said.

"This is because specialised computer equipment is needed to run the tapes and the information on it is protected by a password. Anyone trying to read the information would also then need to have very advanced computer skills or access to a special computer programme to make any sense of it.

"At this early stage of the investigation, Hampshire Constabulary is keeping an open mind regarding the motive of this crime.

"However, most incidents of this nature involving GP practices are people looking for controlled drugs, money or prescription pads. The safe at St Paul's Surgery didn't contain such items.

"The surgery is writing to patients to explain what has happened in more detail, offer support if required and provide reassurances that the chances of their personal data being accessed or used improperly are extremely remote."

The PCT added it has set up a telephone helpline for people to call if they have any questions on 0845 602 6834 between 8am and 8pm.

PC Jonathan Duggan, from Hampshire Police, said the burglars got into the surgery on September 6, forced a locked office door and set off an alarm during the raid.

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