Health Warning for Old Dental Patients in Strathfield

Introduction

NSW Health says some people need a blood test. They went to a dentist in Sydney in the past.

Main Body

Dr. William Tam had a clinic in Strathfield. He is now retired. A health group checked his clinic. They found that the clinic was not clean. Dr. Tam did not keep good lists of his patients. There were maybe 5,000 patients in 25 years. The health group does not have their names. They cannot call the patients. They need the public to read this news. The risk of getting a virus is low. But some viruses like HIV and Hepatitis do not show signs. People must get a test now. Doctors can help them with medicine if they are sick.

Conclusion

Health workers want all old patients of Dr. William Tam to get a blood test.

Learning

The "Action" Word Shift

In this story, we see how words change when something already happened versus what is happening now.

Past (Finished)Present (Now)

  • had (He had a clinic) → has (He has a clinic)
  • went (They went to a dentist) → go (They go to a dentist)
  • found (They found it was not clean) → find (They find it is not clean)

Quick Rule for A2: If you are talking about a memory or a finished time (like "25 years ago"), use the Past version. If it is a fact today, use the Present version.

Example from text:

  • "Dr. Tam had a clinic" (He doesn't have it anymore because he is retired).
  • "Doctors can help" (They are able to help you right now).

Vocabulary Learning

clinic (n.)
a place where medical care is given
Example:I went to the clinic for a check‑up.
retired (adj.)
no longer working, stopped working
Example:After 40 years, she is retired.
clean (adj.)
free from dirt or germs
Example:The room is clean after the cleaning.
patients (n.)
people who receive medical care
Example:The doctor sees many patients each day.
virus (n.)
a tiny germ that can make people sick
Example:The virus can spread through the air.
signs (n.)
indications or symptoms of a problem
Example:There are no signs of illness.
test (n.)
a procedure to check for something
Example:She will take a blood test tomorrow.
medicine (n.)
drug used to treat illness
Example:The medicine helps to reduce pain.
public (n.)
all people in a community
Example:The public should read the notice.
health (n.)
state of being well and free from illness
Example:Good health is important for everyone.