Healthcare worker attempted to sell Princess Kate Middleton’s medical records after London Clinic stay

An investigation into shocking reports of hospital staff attempting to cash in and sell Kate Middleton’s medical records has concluded, presenting damning findings.

The Princess of Wales was admitted to hospital on January 16, 2024, for abdominal surgery at The London Clinic, having a 13 day stay.

Months later, in March, 2024, a criminal investigation was launched by the Information Commissioner’s Office, after it was reported that at least one member of staff attempted to access the Princess’ medical records illegally.

On Wednesday, the ICO released a statement saying the investigation had concluded, finding that a former healthcare worker from London had deliberately misused sensitive information with an offer to disclose it for financial gain.

In the statement, they said the act was “a clear breach of trust”.

While the ICO have not named who the records belonged to, the BBC and other media outlets have reported that they belong to Princess Kate.

Her office, Kensington Palace, declined to comment.

The Mirror, who initially broke news of the scandal almost two years ago, reported that they were told there was “great anxiousness” throughout the investigation.

“This has been a complex and delicate matter involving a senior member of the royal family and one of the world’s most trusted hospitals,” the source said.

“There has been great anxiousness on all sides and it has been wholly appropriate that the correct procedures during the investigation have been followed.”

The late Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip have received treatment at The London Clinic, as well as other high-ranking royals and politicians.

In 2024, the London Clinic’s chief executive Al Russell said there was “no place” at the hospital for breaches of trust.

“Everyone at the London Clinic is acutely aware of our individual, professional, ethical and legal duties with regards to patient confidentiality,” he said.

“We have systems in place to monitor management of patient information and, in the case of any breach, all appropriate investigatory, regulatory and disciplinary steps will be taken.

“There is no place at our hospital for those who intentionally breach the trust of any of our patients or colleagues.”

Months after her hospital stay, the Princess of Wales shared the news that she had been diagnosed with cancer in a heartfelt video on her Instagram, which squashed rumours swirling around the world that she had died.

Princess Kate said last year she was in remission and has returned to public duties, carrying out her first official overseas visit since undergoing treatment when she went to Italy last month.

At the conclusion of their investigation, the ICO said the staff member had received a “formal caution”, and that there were no findings related to any wider failings at the hospital.

The Mirror reported that the hospital worker had been fired.

Executive director for the ICO’s regulatory supervision did not rule out criminal action.

“People should be able to trust that the personal information they’re giving to healthcare settings is safe and protected from exploitation. When this trust is broken, it’s right that the law allows us to take action,” he said.

“We will not hesitate to pursue criminal prosecution where it is necessary and proportionate to do so.”

In response to the findings, a London Clinic spokesperson called the incident “sad”.

“We all take considerable pride in delivering the very highest standards of care and discretion for every patient at the London Clinic,” they said, as reported by the BBC.

“We are pleased our work with the ICO has brought this sad and isolated incident to a conclusion.

“There were no regulatory breaches by the hospital.”