Shocking and frightening news was recently released about a potential transmission of Hepatitis C at two Colorado hospitals, Rose Medical Center in Denver and Audubon Surgery Center in Colorado Springs. The Denver Post notes that a former employee admitted to stealing injectible pain medications and replacing the syringes with placebos to be reused on patients. To me, it is unthinkable that things like this are happening in health care facilities today.
Rose Medical Center is reaching out to 4,700 patients who may have been exposed advising them to seek Hepatitis C testing. Audubon Surgery Center has mailed out 1,200 letters to patients and has recently blogged about their involvement in the situation.
Rose Medical Center News Release states “It is impossible to adequately express how deeply sorry and angry we are that the unconscionable acts of this terminated employee may have put some of our patients at risk.”
Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment FAQ for Colorado Hep C Investigation
The American Liver Foundation has information on Hepatitis C and testing centers available. Contact 800-GO-LIVER or the website for more information.
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I've been watching this story very closely. A friend and former colleague had surgery at Rose in March 09. I haven't called her yet because I don't want to seem nosy, but I'm worried about her. Your post has made it easier to feel that everyone is talking about it and I should reach out to her.
ReplyDeleteSarahlee-thanks for sharing. I have a couple friends that may be affected as well. It is really scary to have to sit and wait and wonder. I'm sure your friend would appreciate the concern during this scary time. I sincerely hope everything turns out ok for her.
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