Patients of Dr. Adi Yoskovitch, a specialist in otolaryngology (ENT) and cervicofacial surgery, are being asked to undergo testing for potential exposure to blood-borne infections. The alert comes after an investigation by the Sous ministériat de prévention et de santé publique. Patients who had appointments with Yoskovitch dating back to 2002 for either an endoscopy procedure or cervicofacial surgery may be at “low to very low risk,” according to the government, of being infected by a blood-borne infection such as hepatitis B (HBV), hepatitis C (HCV) or human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The warning is being issued as a precautionary measure after the National Public Health Director sent a directive to Santé Québec asking that patients undergo preventive screening. Who is affected The alert is for anyone who underwent an ENT endoscopy examination that included a flexible tube with a camera and light or cervicofacial surgery performed by Yoskovitch since 2002. Most of the procedures were carried out in private practices in the Laval or Montreal areas. Additionally, anyone who underwent an endoscopy in a public institution with Yoskovitch should be aware of the warning. Those who have already been tested for hepatitis B, hepatitis C and HIV six months after undergoing a procedure with Yoskovitch are not obliged to partake in further screenings. Some of the practice locations reported to the Collège des médecins du Québec by Yoskovitch include: Laval Montreal Anyone with questions is encouraged to contact Info-Santé at 811. How to get screened Those affected by the alert can make an appointment on Clic Santé or by calling 1 877 644 4545. A nurse will assess your eligibility for screening, which involves providing a blood sample and coordinating medical care if the result is abnormal. Special protective measures are not necessary while waiting for an appointment.
