In a recent development, a class action lawsuit has been filed against Providence Health, alleging that approximately 2,200 individuals may have been exposed to HIV and hepatitis. The lawsuit claims that four patients who received IV anesthesia services during surgical procedures at Providence facilities were potentially exposed to hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV due to the contracted physician's failure to adhere to infection control procedures.

Providence Health officials had previously issued a public safety notice two weeks ago, alerting patients to the potential exposure of infectious diseases. Although the Communications Director, Gary Walker, mentioned that the risk of exposure for the affected patients is low, Providence will be sending letters and MyChart notifications to those who were exposed.

The physician responsible for the anesthesia services was formerly employed by Oregon Anesthesiology Group (OAG) but is no longer associated with the group or working at Providence locations. The doctor remains unidentified to the public at this time.

In response to the situation, Providence Health is urging the contacted patients to undergo blood tests as a precautionary measure to screen for infections. If a patient tests positive, Providence will reach out to them to discuss test results and provide guidance for next steps.

The class action lawsuit names both Providence Health and the independent anesthesiology firm that contracted out the anesthesiologist as defendants. The suit alleges gross negligence on their part. The specific details of the exposure and a timeline of events have not been disclosed as yet.

For now, the four initial plaintiffs in the lawsuit are seeking to be recognized as a class, representing the larger group of 2,200 patients impacted by the potential exposure at Providence. The case will proceed to an Oregon district judge for further review. Notably, all participating plaintiffs in the lawsuit thus far are residents of Clackamas County.

Providence declined to comment on the matter due to the ongoing litigation. As the case progresses, more information is expected to emerge regarding the alleged incidents and their implications for the affected patients.