Chesterfield Royal Hospital sends out letter warning of HIV-infected doctor

The letter from Chesterfield Royal Hospital states that the doctor carried out ‘certain surgical procedures’ and their diagnosis was unknown at the time of care, so past patients of the doctor are advised to attend the hospital for a precautionary blood test.

The letter read: “As worrying as that sounds, we assure you that it is extremely unlikely the virus transferred to you during your care. We would also like to offer you a precautionary blood test, should you wish to have one.”

Chesterfield Royal Hospital’s letter gives no details about whether the affected doctor is still working at the hospital.

The man who passed the letter to Derbyshire Times, who preferred not to be named, said he felt it was his duty to let others know.

He added: “If this person is treating the public, then people have a right to know.”

The letter has also been sent to hospital patients’ GPs.

Chesterfield Royal Hospital has been approached for comment and Derbyshire Times is awaiting its response.