A lawsuit has been filed against an Oregon health care system, Providence Health, and Oregon Anesthesiology Group (OAG) after more than 2,000 patients were potentially exposed to hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV due to alleged negligence by an anesthesiologist. Patients residing in Clackamas County, Oregon, identified as E.P, K.R., C.R., and D.C., received anesthesia for surgeries at various medical centers under Providence Health between March 2022 and February 2024 according to the complaint.

The patients were informed that the physician who administered anesthesia failed to adhere to infection control procedures. The incident came to light when hospital and health officials announced earlier this month that as many as 2,200 patients were possibly exposed to the infections. Patients are being encouraged to undergo blood tests to screen for the infections, with Providence Health offering these tests at no cost.

According to the complaint, the anesthesiologist in question was employed by OAG and treated patients at Providence medical centers between 2017 and 2023. OAG terminated the physician after discovering the violation of infection control practices in June 2024. The plaintiffs, represented by attorneys Adam Polk and Joe Sauder, are suing for negligence and seeking a jury trial, class action certification, as well as unspecified damages and relief.

The patients now face the need for medical treatment and emotional distress due to the alleged negligence. The lawsuit highlights the anxiety and stress experienced by the affected patients as hepatitis B, hepatitis C, and HIV may not be detectable for months. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention indicate that HIV and Hepatitis C may be detected early after exposure. The attorneys representing the plaintiffs have been in contact with impacted patients who are troubled by the potential health risks and implications of the situation.