Some pediatric surgeries shifting from St. Catharines hospital to Niagara Falls

Published November 21, 2022 at 1:18 pm

The strain on the pediatric capacity in Niagara hospitals due to an early and severe seasonal respiratory illness will see some elective day surgeries shifting down the highway from St. Catharines to Niagara Falls.

Starting today (November 21) through to next Friday (December 2), “a small number of elective pediatric day surgeries” will shift from St. Catharines General Hospital to Niagara Falls’ General Hospital.

To monitor any significant shifts from one unit to another, a number of less-urgent surgeries will also simply be rescheduled to a later date.

None of the shifting surgeries are dire as Niagara Health notes, “These elective, non-emergency surgeries are primarily for ear, nose and throat patients. This will not impact emergency pediatric care in any way.”

Niagara Health said that all families affected by the temporary two-week hospital shifts are being contacted to discuss alternative options.

“We appreciate their patience as we work to ensure continuity of care for everyone in the community.”