PRIVATE medical records have been stolen from a popular GP surgery.

Thieves took a computer server from The Shrubberies Medical Practice, George Lane, South Woodford, containing confidential information relating to patient health.

NHS Redbridge has just sent a letter to all those affected by the theft, which occured on March 26, admitting they are not sure whether the thieves can access the database that the info was saved on.

One patient told the Guardian: "They have just sent me a letter saying that mine and other medical records have been stolen.

"Obviously it's a great concern to everyone as a lot of this information is highly sensitive such as if patients have AIDS or HIV."

A NHS Redbridge spokesman confirmed the robbery had taken place.

He added: "The medical centre was broken into some time ago and a server stolen in what is believed to have been an opportunistic theft.

"Password protected patient information was included on the server, but was saved on a back-up system and fully restored within days of the incident.

"Additional security measures have since been installed at the practice to ensure the building is more secure."

Are you a patient at the Shrubberies Medical Practice and concerned about the loss of sensitive medical records? Contact the newsdesk now on 8498 3432 or email ccampbell@london.newsquest.co.uk to have your say.