Houston doctor indicted for accessing personal information about pediatric patients not under his care

HOUSTON – A Houston doctor faces a lengthy prison sentence after an indictment claims he had personal access to patients who were not under his care.

According to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas, Ethan Haim, 34, allegedly obtained personal information, including patients’ names, treatment codes and the identity of their treating physician, through the Texas Children’s electronic system. Hospital (TCH), without authorization.

Prosecutors say Haim was previously a resident at TCH during medical rotations. However, in April 2023, officials say he requested to reactivate his TCH login access to obtain information on pediatric patients in his care.

“The indictment alleges that he obtained unauthorized access to the personal information of pediatric patients under false pretenses and then disclosed it to a media contact,” the U.S. Attorney’s Office said in a press release. .

If convicted, Haim faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a maximum fine of up to $250,000.