Siouxland Urology Center recently announced up to 5,200 patients could face a slight risk of Hepatitis or HIV infection after fluid contamination during cystscopic procedures at its Dakota Dunes or satellite facilities. The tests happened between March 23, 2002 and January 26, 2009 at its Dakota Dunes location, or January 26, 2007 and January 26, 2009 at its satellite locations.

The actual letter Siouxland Urology sent out to its patients announcing concerns gives more insight into how its handling the situation.

The letter says Siouxland Urology understands the trust patients place in them and takes that reponsibility seriously. It adds the clinic wants to be as supportive as possible. Out of a quote "abundance of caution" Siouxland Urology announced more than 5,000 cystoscopy patients face a slight risk of infection from fluid backflow. 
    
"Our patient's safety and care is always our highest priority," says a voicemail message at the clinic, "we want want to stress that the risk of exposure is extremely slight, but out of an abundance of caution we are offering free blood tests."

If you had a cystoscopy at Siouxland Urology between March 2002 and January 2009 they'll give you a free blood test to check for infection. Staff are offering them at the following times:

Friday, Apr. 17 8am - 6pm
Saturday, Apr. 18 8am - 12pm
Monday, Apr. 20 5pm - 7pm

If you are unable to visit the Center during those times, staff invite you to call 1-888-718-3456. Staff say in the paperwork that they're now disposing of all the tubes involved in a cystoscopy to 'correct the situation'.