In the photo, personal information such as Pierre-Paul’s patient ID number and other sensitive information were discernible.
MORE: Pierre-Paul facing six-week recovery | Will JPP hold out?
Some of the criticism toward Schefter was that overstepped his bounds ethically; a report without the photo would have been sufficient. Other observers on social media saw it as a violation of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, which protects the expectation of privacy in medical records, and called for ESPN to be held accountable.
In an interview with Sports Illustrated, Schefter insisted sharing the photo was a necessary component to his report.
The hospital, Jackson Memorial in Miami, Fla., has promised an internal investigation to uncover how the information was leaked. Pierre-Paul reportedly is expected to sue the hospital.
“This one was different and unique for a variety of reasons. The extent of his injuries were going to come to light, maybe that day or later that week, but soon. They’re horrific injuries, incredibly unfortunate for the player. But in a day and age in which pictures and videos tell stories and confirm facts, in which sources and their motives are routinely questioned, and in which reporters strive to be as accurate as possible, this was the ultimate supporting proof.”
Schefter goes on to say he didn’t originally seek the photo, which came into his possession unexpectedly through a source. He also admitted he has “struggled” with the criticism of his journalistic ethics.
