GIPPSLAND Women’s Health (GWH) has condemned the ‘weaponisation’ of personal healthcare data targeting those who have had abortions.
In response to the latest Medibank data breach, Gippsland Women’s Health (GWH) said they stand alongside other Women’s Health Services in Victoria to vehemently condemn the weaponisation of private healthcare information, particularly targeting women and people with a uterus who have had abortions.
“The exploitation of personal healthcare data is reprehensible. To specifically target women and attempt to shame them for accessing health services that are legal, safe and very common constitutes abuse,” GWH chief executive Kate Graham said.
GWH said that abortion is a safe, common, and legal medical procedure that enables women and people with a uterus to exercise their reproductive rights and autonomy. It maintains that access to sexual and reproductive healthcare, including abortion, is central to gender equality and promoting the rights of women.
Ms Graham said that GWH stands with the people who have had their personal data breached and strongly condemns the “heinous” act.
“For those women who today are feeling afraid and stressed about their personal information we stand by you, we support you and we reiterate that what these criminals have done is grievous and morally corrupt,” Ms Graham said.
“We expect that Medibank Private does everything in its power to provide additional support and keep safe those that have been impacted by this data breach.”
GWH said one-in-four women will access abortion services in their reproductive lifetime.
If you know of a woman close to you that is concerned, listen, support, and refer to support services if needed. If you or anyone you know is affected by this breach, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 for 24/7 Crisis Support or Text 13 11 14 for a confidential one-to-one text with a trained Lifeline Crisis Supporter.
