Montreal Sexual Health Clinic L’Actuel Files for Bankruptcy Protection | $1.6M Debt

Montreal’s L’Actuel medical clinic, specializing in sexual health, has filed for protection from creditors due to significant financial difficulties attributed to rising operating costs. The clinic, founded by Dr. Réjean Thomas, owes creditors more than CAD $1.6 million, according to a bankruptcy notice filed on February 11, with over CAD $400,000 owed to the Quebec Revenue Agency.

The news, first reported by Le Journal de Montréal, was confirmed by Le Devoir. Despite the filing, the clinic, located in the heart of Montreal’s Village, continues to operate while a first meeting of creditors is scheduled for Friday.

L’Actuel provides services in the prevention, screening, and treatment of sexually and blood-borne infections (STBBIs), including HIV. Dr. Thomas is known for his long-standing commitment to HIV/AIDS care and advocacy. He founded Médecins du Monde Canada and has been a vocal advocate for increased access to preventative measures.

In 2024, Dr. Thomas received the “Rayonnement et engagement 2024” award from the Fédération des médecins omnipraticiens du Québec (FMOQ) for his career, recognizing his dedication to vulnerable populations. Dr. Marc-André Amyot, president-director general of the FMOQ, stated at the time of the award presentation that it recognized “a doctor of exception, an engaged doctor, a doctor engaged with his clientele and with vulnerable patients.”

Dr. Thomas has recently spoken about the increasing rates of HIV infection, noting a lack of awareness among younger generations who did not experience the height of the AIDS epidemic. He emphasized the importance of screening and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP), which is over 90% effective in preventing HIV transmission. He too lamented the limited discussion of HIV/AIDS in medical education, observing that it receives insufficient attention even within his own clinic.

The bankruptcy filing comes amidst a broader context of financial pressures on healthcare providers in Quebec. The clinic’s financial struggles highlight the challenges faced by specialized clinics providing essential sexual health services.