Watchdog informed of data error involving Caithness patient
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The government's data protection watchdog has been asked to probe a mix-up in which a Caithness patient found medical information relating to someone else on his file.
Peter Todd was "appalled" to discover the glitch and believes the rogue entry could have been present for up to three years.
Mr Todd said he has now contacted the UK Government's Information Commissioner's Office (ICO) to investigate.
He has received an apology from NHS Highland, which has already referred itself to the regulator.
It is the latest run-in Mr Todd has had with the health authority about the psychiatric service provided to him and others in the far north.
He has three other outstanding complaints lodged with the ICO about management practices.
Mr Todd was shocked to see the content of his file, which he had sought as he continues his recovery from a mental health condition linked to historic sexual abuse.
As well as information about another patient, it contained confidential material about a clinician.
Mr Todd, of Mey Terrace, Thurso. arranged for the file to be returned and has been assured the outside information will be removed.
The 39-year-old said: "I am still waiting to find out if managers have informed the other patient that their medical documents were sent to another patient.
"I'm also keen to ensure that none of the documents regarding my involvement in a historical abuse inquiry have gone astray.
"I do think it is appalling that information from another patient could have been in my file for three years."
Mr Todd is also concerned that some of his medical information may have ended up on the other patient's file.
NHS Highland has apologised for "an administrative error" and has confirmed that it has referred the complaint to the Information Commissioner's Office.
