MLHU alerts London doctor’s patients of possible blood-borne infections | CBC News

The Middlesex-London Health Unit (MLHU) is notifying patients who were under the care of a London doctor to consult their healthcare provider for possible testing for blood-borne infections.

On Wednesday, the MLHU released an alert that patients who received a procedure, including injections, lumbar punctures, or bone marrow biopsies under George Rice’s care between 2019 and September 2023 might have been exposed to infections.

“We are recommending that anyone who has seen doctor Rice…see their healthcare provider to be tested for HIV, hepatitis B, Hepatitis C and syphilis,” said Dr. Joanne Kearon, associate officer of medical health at the MLHU.

The MLHU received An Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) Lapse Disclosure report from the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario in September 2023 detailing concerns about Rice’s clinic.

The health unit also investigated and published a disclosure report in November. The report listed Rice’s “improper use of multi dose vials” and “improper reprocessing of multi-use instruments used in neurological examinations.”

“We have guidance from multiple expert agencies including Public Health Ontario on what is considered best practice,” said Dr. Kearon.

“When these measures are not in place, it increases the risk of there being transmission of blood-borne infections for example from patient to patient or provider to patient.”

After a number of patient complaints and following the investigation, the MLHU notified all of Rice’s patients.

More information can be found on the MLHU’s website.