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“I found the whole thing completely outrageous. I felt so strongly that these are really people with significant challenges,” said Hess.

“Nobody would hire these people. They cannot get a job. Most of them have severe addictions or prenatal exposure to alcohol. I just felt unless someone helped them voice their complaint, it would just get swept under the rug.”

Clarke was on vacation and unavailable for comment.

Hess filed a complaint with Alberta Health Services which says the allegations are being taken seriously.

“We are investigating, and will take any necessary action once that investigation is complete,” Alberta Health Services said in an emailed statement.

“There is no excuse for the comments that were allegedly made in this instance, and we want to assure those involved in this incident that this sort of alleged language in no way reflects the beliefs or values of AHS.”

I just felt unless someone helped them voice their complaint, it would just get swept under the rug

It says Clarke will remain on administrative leave until the matter is resolved. Anyone involved will be given a different doctor if they need medical assistance from the Cardston clinic.

Hess also filed a complaint with the Alberta College of Physicians and Surgeons which found there was insufficient evidence that Clarke engaged in unprofessional conduct.

“I am of the view that the various concerns raised in your letter of complaint do not relate to patient care,” wrote Michael Caffaro, the college’s assistant registrar and complaints director.