Toronto Surgeon Ordered to Pay $21M for Privacy Violations
Judge orders Toronto plastic surgeon to pay $21M to former patients after installing 24 cameras around clinic
Image: Ctv News
Dr. Martin Jugenburg, a Toronto plastic surgeon, has been ordered to pay over $21 million to approximately 7,000 former patients after a judge found he violated their privacy by installing surveillance cameras in sensitive areas of his clinic. The ruling highlights the breach of trust and the emotional distress experienced by patients.
- 01The judge described Dr. Jugenburg's actions as 'reprehensible' and a betrayal of patient trust.
- 02Surveillance cameras were installed in areas including consultation and operating rooms without proper notification to patients.
- 03Patients reported feeling violated and anxious after learning about the cameras, which were not disclosed until a 2018 CBC investigation.
- 04The court awarded $21.5 million to class action members, with $5,000 for surgical appointment attendees and $500 for non-surgical ones.
- 05Dr. Jugenburg acknowledged the need for better patient privacy measures but denied any nefarious intent behind the camera installations.
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A Toronto plastic surgeon, Dr. Martin Jugenburg, has been ordered to pay over $21 million to around 7,000 former patients after a judge ruled he invaded their privacy by installing 24 surveillance cameras throughout his clinic, including in sensitive areas like consultation and operating rooms. Justice Paul Schabas deemed Jugenburg's conduct 'reprehensible,' stating he prioritized his own interests over those of his patients. The lawsuit arose following a 2018 CBC Marketplace investigation that revealed the camera system. Patients testified to feeling violated and anxious upon discovering the surveillance, with many unaware of the cameras until the investigation. The judge noted that signage regarding the cameras was inadequate and obscured. In addition to the substantial compensation, Jugenburg was ordered to pay $1 million in punitive damages. While he acknowledged a need for improved privacy measures, he denied any malicious intent behind the camera usage, which he claimed was for security purposes. The ruling emphasizes the critical importance of patient trust and privacy in medical settings.
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The ruling underscores the importance of patient privacy in healthcare settings, potentially influencing future regulations and patient trust.
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