The Hospital Authority on Saturday assured the public that it will not tolerate any violation of patients’ privacy after a series of recent incidents involving public hospital staff posting clinical images or patient information on social media.

The HA said in a statement that it has suspended the duties of a medical intern at Princess Margaret Hospital following a complaint about the leakage online of a patient’s private information.

It added that the intern, who worked at the hospital’s Department of Medicine and Geriatrics, will also go on temporary leave starting Sunday.

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“As a provider of public healthcare services, the HA requires all staff to strictly adhere to professional codes of conduct, uphold integrity, and observe the principle of safeguarding patients' rights and privacy,” the statement reads.

“Leakage of patient privacy by staff in any form will not be tolerated. The HA deeply regrets any suspected disregard for patient privacy by its staff.”

When using social media, healthcare staff must at all times be guided by professionalism, and place the best interests of patients as their foremost consideration, the HA said.

It said Princess Margaret Hospital immediately conducted an investigation into the incident after receiving a public complaint on April 10. The HA added that it also discussed the matter with the intern’s university.

Medical students and interns are also required to complete patient privacy training and sign a confidentiality agreement before being granted access to the Clinical Management System, the HA said.

 “Should any staff member be found to have violated the regulations, the HA will strictly follow up the matter and handle it in accordance with established personnel procedures,” the HA said.

“Case concerned will be referred to the Medical Council where necessary, in order to demonstrate the HA's commitment to protecting patient privacy,” it added.