A significant number of individuals who sought dental care in Sydney over the past 25 years are being advised to undergo testing for diseases like HIV, following potential exposure concerns.
NSW Health revealed that an investigation into Dr. William Tam’s practice, located at Suite B, 2 Albert Street, Strathfield, identified serious issues with infection control and record maintenance.
Despite Dr. Tam’s retirement and cessation of practice, the possibility remains that his extensive patient list may have been at risk for contracting bloodborne illnesses, including HIV, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C.
The inadequate record-keeping practices have left NSW Health unable to reach out directly to all of Dr. Tam’s former patients.
“To err on the side of caution, we recommend that anyone who was treated by Dr. Tam undergo testing for bloodborne viruses,” advised Dr. Leena Gupta, Clinical Director of Public Health at the Sydney Local Health District.
“The poor infection control practices at Dr Tam’s practice means all former patients may be at low risk of a blood-borne virus infection, which can have serious and long-lasting health impacts.
“People with HIV, hepatitis B, or hepatitis C may not have any symptoms for decades, so it is important that people at risk of these infections are tested, so that they can access treatment as appropriate. There are effective treatments available for all three conditions.”
Patients of Dr Tam have been advised to see their local GP to get tested for the viruses as soon as possible.
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