The Huron Perth Healthcare Alliance (HPHA) announced it's postponing a number of scheduled surgeries starting Monday.
Under the direction of provincial health officials, hospitals across Ontario have been told to stop performing non-emergent procedures due to the rising number of COVID-19 patients occupying regional hospitals.
"We deeply regret the stress and disappointment this announcement may cause," said President and CEO Andrew Williams. "It is important that we align with Ontario Health's direction to ensure that we have the capacity to support our provincial healthcare system so that we may continue to treat patients, with and without COVID-19, who require urgent, lifesaving care."
Patients affected by the changes will be contacted by their surgeon's office.
Stratford General Hospital will be accepting patients from the Toronto area to support hospitals that are reaching capacity limits.
"This adherence to the province’s stay-at-home order and public health measures along with increased vaccination will be key to hastening our recovery," Williams said.
Those in need of emergency care are still able to receive care at any HPHA site. The organization assures the community that it is still safe to attend hospitals, and to not delay seeking treatment if needed.
