As of Monday, Niagara Health will begin postponing some surgeries amid extreme pressure on critical care capacity in hospitals all over the province. The health system said the move comes after directions from Ontario Health.
In a statement posted to NH's website, President and Interim CEO Lynn Gurriero said she was 'disappointed' over the requirements brought on by the current situation.
“We understand the impact the postponement of surgeries will have on our patients, their families, and caregivers, and we’re very sorry for this unfortunate situation.”
All patients scheduled for a surgical procedure will be called directly by their care provider starting today, to confirm whether they are proceeding or having their procedure deferred. Decisions regarding urgency of each case and whether the procedure will be deferred will be made by each patient’s clinical team and will be based on individual circumstances.
Patients are encouraged not to call the hospital or their surgeon.
"We will reschedule surgeries as soon as we are able to do so," Niagara Health said.
There are no other changes to other current services at this time.
Niagara Health said 19 patients are currently in hospital with COVID-19, and that there is still capacity in the ICU, and that there is a plan in place to increase critical care capacity as needed.
