Mediation meeting set to take place over claims by a Caithness man of data breaches by NHS Highland

A MEDIATION meeting is to take place to try and find "a mutual understanding" over claims by a Caithness man of data breaches by NHS Highland.

The health authority has agreed to meet Peter Todd and told him that chief executive, Pam Dudek and Dr Neil McNamara – clinical director for mental health – will attend the mediation meeting although no date has yet been confirmed.

"The aim of the meeting will be to come to a mutual understanding regarding any historic matters in a bid to move on with a constructive outlook. It will also be an opportunity to set the expectations regarding future dialogue with yourself and NHS Highland.

"The Feedback Team will be in touch further with a proposed time and date for the meeting, " said the health authority.

Mr Todd, who lives in Thurso, has referred his complaints to the Information Commissioner and the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman but has asked for the meeting with the chief executive and the clinical director for mental health “to try and find a constructive way forward for both parties”.

He is unhappy with the way his medical files have been dealt with and pointed out that he has received information about other patients in the documents.

Mr Todd welcomed the mediation meeting with Pam Dudek and Dr Neil McNamara and hoped it would be arranged in Caithness in the middle of winter "so they can experience the distance that thousands of patients travel every year."

He is "appalled" at what he says is "my data breaches fiasco" and the attitude of some managers.

"NHS Highland for too long have tried to bury the bullying culture but with the grateful assistance of the Information Commissioner and Scottish Public Service's Ombudsman that won't happen."

Mr Todd praised "the elected representatives who have stood by my side" during these issues. He claimed what happened to him is "happening on a daily basis to other patients who for a variety of reasons don't speak out."

"I do hope all parties can find some common ground to find a constructive way forward which from my perspective will help re-build my shattered relationship with managers."

Thurso and northwest Caithness Highland councillor, Matthew Reiss, who has tried to assist Mr Todd resolve the issues, said: "I will continue to do what I can to help Peter. Mediation is usually a good way to try and solve long-term issues. I have found the chief executive approachable and helpful and would hope there will be a good outcome at the meeting."

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