Chatham Skin Clinic Clarifies Medical Alert: Documentation, Not Sterilization, is the Issue
Chatham, February 18, 2026
By Jaryn Vecchio
The Chatham Skin Clinic is addressing concerns raised by Chatham-Kent Public Health after an alert was issued to patients.
Last week, patients who received medical procedures at the clinic on Keil Drive between October 1, 2024, and January 30, 2026, were advised to consult their doctors about potential testing for diseases like HIV and Hepatitis. This alert was triggered by a reported lapse in sterilizing and reprocessing medical equipment at the clinic.
However, the Chatham Skin Clinic has now come forward with a different explanation. In a statement, they clarify that while all medical equipment was indeed sterilized, the issue lies in the inadequate documentation of this process.
The clinic's statement reads, "During a significant period, instruments were sterilized using hospital-grade systems, but the tracking and documentation were not up to standard." They did not elaborate on the reasons behind the lack of proper documentation, only acknowledging a record-keeping oversight.
Despite this, the clinic reassures patients that the risk of bloodborne illness is minimal, citing no reported cases to date. They encourage individuals who underwent procedures during the specified period to discuss testing with their healthcare providers.
To prevent future occurrences, the clinic is implementing several measures. These include transitioning to single-use and disposable items, enhancing documentation protocols, and retraining staff. Additionally, a third-party audit is being conducted by Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) Canada to ensure compliance with sterilization standards.
This clarification highlights the importance of accurate documentation in medical settings, even when sterilization protocols are followed. It also underscores the clinic's commitment to patient safety and transparency.
