Hospitals could help to fight crime

[18 July 2008]

Hospitals should share data with the police when patients are admitted because of a violent attack, according to a crime expert.

Professor Jonathan Shepherd suggested that times, locations and information about weapons used could be kept anonymous. Doctors only currently have to inform police when they treat patients with gunshot wounds. Although they are happy to share data, they are concerned about risking patient confidentiality, and may deter people from seeking treatment. However, Professor Shepherd, of Cardiff University, has said that comiling data anonymously to share with crime reduction partnerships, which could include the police and the council, could be an invaluable service and help to identify hotspots and criminals.

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