Navy Sailor Disciplined for Attempted Access to President Biden's Medical Records

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
09/07/2024 17h11

In an unprecedented breach attempt, a junior Navy sailor allegedly tried to access President Biden's medical records three times in February from a military medical database. The U.S. Navy has confirmed the incident and subsequent administrative discipline after an investigation concluded in late April.

The sailor, whose identity remains undisclosed, serves in the Navy's hospital corps and is stationed at Fort Belvoir, a significant medical hub in Virginia, according to a U.S. official familiar with the situation. The unauthorized access occurred in the Genesis Medical Health System, the military's secure health system.

Fortunately, the Navy assures that the President's personal information was not compromised. Commander Tim Hawkins stated in a statement to CBS News that the MHS Genesis system remained secure throughout the incident.

The breach was brought to light when a co-worker of the sailor reported the incident, prompting the Navy Criminal Investigative Service to commence an investigation on February 26. During the inquiry, the sailor admitted to searching for President Biden's name out of curiosity but acknowledged not finding the correct medical record.

The investigation concluded on April 24, determining that the sailor had not accessed the President's medical record, as it is restricted within the Genesis system. The co-worker's timely reporting allowed for swift action to be taken.

The White House was promptly notified about the breach by the Defense Department, and President Biden was informed soon after. The exact timing of when the White House became aware of the incident remains undisclosed.

It is important to note that while the sailor was stationed at Fort Belvoir, President Biden receives his annual physicals and emergency medical care at the Walter Reed National Medical Center in Maryland, just outside Washington, D.C. The President underwent his annual physical at Walter Reed on February 28, two days after the Navy's investigation commenced. However, the White House assures that the physical was previously scheduled and remained unaffected by the breach attempt.

Following the physical examination, President Biden was deemed "fit for duty" and received a clean bill of health from his physician. The summary of the examination indicated no new concerns, with the exception of a new diagnosis for sleep apnea. The President continues to fulfill his responsibilities without any limitations or accommodations.

This incident occurred shortly after a report by special counsel Robert Hur on February 5, which did not recommend criminal charges against President Biden for mishandling classified documents during his tenure as vice president. The report described the President as an elderly man with a poor memory who would likely present himself sympathetically in a trial. This conclusion angered President Biden and sparked renewed discussions about his fitness to serve as the Commander-in-Chief.

As questions surrounding the President's annual physical arose among White House reporters, this attempted breach serves as a reminder of the importance of safeguarding sensitive medical information. The Navy's swift response to the incident highlights their commitment to maintaining the security of the military medical system.

It is crucial for further steps to be taken to prevent future breaches and ensure the privacy and security of personal data, particularly that of high-profile individuals.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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