Patient Tested for Alcohol Without Consent During Menopause Treatment

A patient in Örebro was tested for her alcohol consumption without her consent when she sought treatment for menopause symptoms.

According to a complaint filed with the Health and Social Care Inspectorate (Ivo), a patient in Örebro was subjected to a Peth test without her consent. The patient sought care for menopause symptoms and was directed to provide samples after contacting healthcare services.

She only learned she was being tested for alcohol consumption when she asked about the tests being conducted while a needle was in her arm.

"Without being informed in advance, without giving consent, without any medical indication, or even having a conversation with a doctor," the patient wrote in the complaint to Ivo.

Region: "Mistake Made"

The actions described in the email violate the region's guidelines.

"If they did not inform about why the test was taken, a mistake was made," said Jonas Classon, Health and Medical Care Director of Region Örebro, to Nyhetsbyrån Siren.

Niklas Tiderman, Chief of Staff and Acting Regional Director, told Siren that many have contacted the region expressing concern about being subjected to Peth testing. This concern increased in May when news broke about Swedes losing their driving licenses due to blood tests, causing significant debate.

In response, the region chose to clarify its guidelines, emphasizing that Peth tests should always "occur in dialogue with, or after informing the patient."

Expressen has reached out to the patient who reported the incident.