One patient each from centers in Murfreesboro, Tenn.; Augusta, Ga.; and Miami has tested positive. In addition, the VA reported six positive tests for the hepatitis B virus and 19 positive tests for hepatitis C at the three locations, according to the report.
The VA said in the report that there was no way to confirm that the patients were exposed to the viruses at the facilities and that risk of exposure was low.
According to the report, 10,797 patients were "potentially affected" at the three sites, and more than 5,400 patients have received their follow-up test results. The VA is still trying to contact patients who had undeliverable or no addresses to warn them of the potential risk.
Read the Chronicle’s report on the potential HIV/hepatitis exposure at the VA clinics.
At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.