A family physician in Winnipeg is facing accusations of mishandling, losing, or delaying the transfer of medical records, leading to delayed access to medical treatment. One incident involved a patient being stuck with hefty medical bills in the U.S. due to missing documents. Former patient Helena Friesen expressed distress over the situation, highlighting the challenges she faced in resolving the issue.
Numerous individuals shared their encounters with Dr. Christina Winogrodzka, a general practitioner at Birchwood Medical Clinic in Winnipeg, citing instances of missing medical files, unprocessed patient referrals, undelivered prescriptions, and disorganized office filing systems. Both Friesen and former staff member Christine Edwards lodged complaints with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Manitoba regarding these issues.
In one instance, a critical oncology referral remained unfiled for a year, causing significant distress to the patient. Additionally, delayed transfer of medical records led to financial and emotional hardship for another patient, Friesen, who was left with a substantial medical bill due to missing documents.
Another patient, Linda Gies, faced challenges maintaining her disability status as Winogrodzka delayed filling out necessary forms, impacting her financial stability. Patients and former staff members described a cluttered and unsanitary office space, with allegations of unsanitary conditions, lost prescriptions, and outdated medical supplies.
Efforts to address these concerns with the College of Physicians and Surgeons were made by both patients and former staff members. Following media attention on the situation, records were reportedly removed from Winogrodzka’s clinic premises. The College acknowledged the concerns and pledged improvements in handling complaints about physician care and conduct.
Despite multiple attempts to seek comment from Winogrodzka, she declined to provide a response. The situation has raised awareness about the importance of patient advocacy and healthcare accountability.