12/07/2024 | Writer: Kaos GL
E.Y, a trans woman residing in Izmir, revealed that her private health information was improperly disclosed during a surgery at Bornova Private Alfa Medical Centre.
Photograph: Serra Akcan / csgorselarsiv.org
According to a news report by Evrim Kepenek of Bianet, E.Y, a trans woman who underwent surgery on 18 April 2024 at Bornova Private Alfa Medical Centre in Izmir, revealed that her HIV-positive status was disclosed without her consent. E.Y had shared this sensitive information privately with her doctor, O.K., during a one-on-one consultation. However, on the day of her operation, this information was made known to many, including her companion, through a bracelet worn on her wrist.
In her complaint to the Izmir Chief Public Prosecutor’s Office, E.Y. asserted that her personal health data and privacy were violated. She also reported that hospital doctors attempted to bribe her to recant her complaint and that she was verbally harassed by the hospital staff during the operation. E.Y. recounted her experience:
“The lawyer of this doctor called our lawyer and offered us to give 80 thousand TL in we recant the complaint. I never accept this money. It has nothing to do with the amount of money, my whole life was exposed. My private information was leaked. They insulted me on top of that. I have my honour. I was offended as a human being. I will stand upon my rights, I will not recant my complaint.”
Following her complaint, E.Y. stated that the Provincial Directorate of Health contacted her for a statement:
“I went to the Health Directorate, they asked questions about both the hospital and the doctor, and I told them. I think an investigation was initiated.”
Bianet reached out to Bornova Alfa Medical Centre for comment on the allegations, but the questions were left unanswered.
Tags: human rights, hiv
