CONCORD MEDICAL SPINE AND PAIN CENTER ORDERED CLOSED

DOVER (March 9, 2016) - Delaware's Division of Public Health (DPH) has ordered the closure of Concord Medical Spine and Pain Center, located at 6 Sharpley Road, Wilmington. The medical practice was inspected by DPH on Monday, March 7, and ordered closed after the facility was unable to confirm that proper sterilization processes were followed. In addition, the facility did not meet the legal requirement to be accredited by an independent accrediting body.

At this time DPH is not aware of cases of transmission of blood-borne diseases at this facility. As a precautionary measure, however, DPH is encouraging patients who may have received services at this facility to contact their health care provider to discuss evaluation for blood-borne diseases such as hepatitis and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) due to the use of potentially unsterile equipment. This recommendation is standard DPH practice when it cannot confirm proper sterilization procedures were followed at the facilities it regulates.

For further information on closed medical facilities, DPH created a frequently asked questions page at dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/dph/ipfclosurefaq.html.Some of the questions addressed on this page are:

• Why was my doctor's office closed?
• Why did DPH recommend talking to a doctor about medical testing?
• For medical providers, what are recommendations for evaluating current and/or former patients of the closed facility?

DPH regulates facilities that perform invasive medical procedures and has ordered the closure of three other facilities in the past five years, including a dermatologist; a podiatrist; and an ear, nose and throat doctor. Title 16 Del.C.122 122(3)(y and z) gives the Division of Public Health authority to establish standards with respect to safety and sanitary conditions of certain medical facilities, and investigate and inspect any such facility for unsafe or unsanitary conditions upon receipt of a written complaint by a patient or current facility employee, or upon the occurrence of any adverse event in connection with any such facility. This authority includes requiring that invasive medical procedure providers be accredited by a national accrediting body.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations. DPH, a division of DHSS, urges Delawareans to make healthier choices with the 5-2-1 Almost None campaign: eat 5 or more fruits and vegetables each day, have no more than 2 hours of recreational screen time each day (includes TV, computer, gaming), get 1 or more hours of physical activity each day, drink almost no sugary beverages.

Delaware Health and Social Services is committed to improving the quality of the lives of Delaware's citizens by promoting health and well-being, fostering self-sufficiency, and protecting vulnerable populations.