Outaouais Man Fears Foot Amputation Due to Lack of Care Feels Like a Mistreated Dog

A man from Outaouais is facing a serious health crisis due to inadequate medical care for his foot infection. Harold Clément, a 60-year-old diagnosed with Charcot syndrome in 2023, is concerned he may face amputation. This condition has led to the deterioration of foot tissues, putting his life at risk.

Ongoing Health Issues and Concerns

Harold Clément has been struggling with a severe foot infection for several months. His daughter, Véronique Clément, explained that his condition includes moving bones and open wounds. Compounding this issue, he developed sepsis, a life-threatening blood infection.

• Diagnosed with Charcot syndrome in 2023
• Developed sepsis due to untreated infection
• On the brink of amputation due to lack of care

Lack of Medical Support

The situation escalated when the only vascular surgeon in the area left without arranging for continued care. Despite repeated pleas for assistance, Harold faced rejection from local doctors, who would send him home without adequate treatment.

“I feel like a mistreated dog,” Clément expressed, reflecting on his frustrating experience with the health system.

Emergency Intervention Saved His Life

This summer, Harold suffered a severe infection that nearly cost him his life. His daughter credits an attentive nurse at the local health clinic for recognizing the urgency of his situation and directing him to the emergency room, which ultimately saved him.

Desperate Measures for Care

In a bid to secure better treatment, Véronique traveled from Montreal to Ottawa to assist her father. Together, they sought admission to the Centre Hospitalier de l’Université de Montréal (CHUM). Harold remains anxious about his condition, admitting, “I may have to lose my foot.”

Transferring to McGill Health Centre

Harold’s medical file will soon be transferred to the McGill University Health Centre for further evaluation and treatment. His daughter lamented the systemic failures that endanger vulnerable patients, criticizing the lack of communication among healthcare institutions.

Response from CISSS

The Outaouais Integrated Health and Social Services Centre (CISSS) acknowledged the shortage of vascular surgeons in the region. They are collaborating with Santé Québec to develop sustainable solutions tailored to patient needs.

“We take these situations very seriously and are working diligently to prevent a recurrence,” they stated in a recent email.

Harold Clément’s plight highlights the urgent need for improved healthcare access and communication in the Outaouais region. As he navigates this challenging path, his story underscores the struggles faced by many within the healthcare system.