A look inside Brantford, Ont., dental office flagged for sterilization lapses, leading to patient testing

The clinic, situated at 353 St. Alice paul Ave, was closed shoot down on Nov. 3, and o'er 800 former patients who had treatment between Nov. 3, 2021, to Nov. 3, 2025, have been urged by GEPH to get hepatitis B, hepatitis C and HIV testing.

Over 800 patients of Brantford, Ont., clinic reminded to get HIV, hepatitis tests after dentist resigns

It was carried out by Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) and found 15 lapses in the disinfection and sterilization of reusable instruments. 

The RCDSO website says if Chan seeks to reapply for registration as a dentist in Ontario, he must submit monitoring of his infection prevention and control practices for 24 months, "starting on the date that he resumes practising dentistry in Ontario, in addition to any other requirements or terms, conditions, and limitations imposed by the College upon his registration.” This was also in effect since July 2.

Patients of Ontario dental clinic speak out after hepatitis, HIV tests urged due to sterilization lapses

According to one dentist, this isn't a "normal condition."

Dr. Aviv Ouanounou, an associate professor in the University of Toronto’s faculty of dentistry, said this doesn't routinely apply to dentists who reapply for registration in the province.

The current status on the RCDSO website says Chan may have retired, left the province/country, returned to school, changed professions or took a leave for personal reasons.

Ouanounou said a dentist's resignation or lapse of registration doesn't prevent the RCDSO from proceeding with disciplinary action if it's considered in the public interest. In appropriate cases, Ouanounou said, the RCDSO may proceed with discipline despite the dentist no longer holding an active certificate.

Patients from shuttered Brantford dental clinic asked to test for hepatitis B, C and HIV

The RCDSO said in an email that dental authorities in provinces across Canada require certificates of standing from each other where the applicant previously was registered. 

This means if Chan does seek to practise dentistry, he’d most likely be required to provide a Certificate of Standing.

“The college issues Certificates of Standings to regulatory bodies and Ontario hospitals,” the RCDSO said.

Former patients during the four-year period noted by the GEPH are encouraged to visit their primary-care provider or a walk-in clinic to discuss screening for possible blood-borne infections. A testing requisition form from GEPH is required.

For anyone who doesn't have a primary-care provider, GEPH says, patients can access care at the Primary Care Access Clinic at 226-388-4725 or by booking an appointment with the Virtual Urgent Care Clinic.

Reporter

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