Woman says privacy was invaded while at CAMC

CHARLESTON -- A woman is suing Charleston Area Medical Center after she claims her privacy was invaded.

On Jan. 17, 2009, Laura Bortey presented to CAMC for chest pain and pain radiating down her left arm and up into her neck, according to a complaint filed June 18 in Kanawha Circuit Court.

Bortey claims she was escorted to a closed, solid wall and door examination room, unlike other examination areas in the emergency room.

The defendant did not advise that the examination room was designed to house patients who required video surveillance, nor was Bortey advised that the examination room she was directed to occupy was equipped with a video surveillance camera or device, according to the suit.

Bortey claims she also did not request video surveillance or observation as designed and intended by CAMC in the solid, enclosed examination room.

CAMC did not post notice or warnings that the examination room was subject to video surveillance, according to the suit.

Bortey claims upon entering the room she was instructed to undress from the waist up and to wear a hospital gown. She claims she was partially nude during the time she underwent an EKG in the room.

When Bortey noticed the surveillance camera, she called for the nurse and expressed "deep and serious concern about her privacy ..." according to the suit.

Bortey claims the defendant invaded her privacy.

Bortey is seeking punitive damages and pre- and post-judgment interest. She is being represented by Paul K. Reese.

The case has been assigned to Circuit Judge Carrie Webster.

Kanawha Circuit Court case number: 10-C-1096