Hospital Loses Patient Records, Baby's Health at Risk

A harrowing experience unfolded for a mother after her infant son's critical medical records went missing for more than two months following his hospital stay. The infant required extensive care, including lumbar punctures and an MRI, due to sudden seizures. The absence of these records prevented his doctors from accessing vital information, keeping him on potentially harmful anti-seizure medication longer than necessary.

Hospital officials acknowledged that issues can arise during large-scale system changes, specifically referencing the recent implementation of a new electronic medical record system, One Person One Record, at the IWK Health Centre. While no permanent loss of entire patient records was confirmed, the temporary inability to access timely information caused significant concern. The health authority is monitoring system performance and addressing workflow challenges.

Meanwhile, Nova Scotia Health is preparing for the same system's rollout in its central zone, anticipating temporary slowdowns and adjustments to services, including elective surgeries, to manage the transition. Clinics are also advising patients to confirm receipt of all information post-appointments. Health Minister Michelle Thompson acknowledged that such anomalies can be distressing for families and assured that situations would be investigated.