Update: Nonessential Elective Procedures in Massachusetts

Media Contact

Susan Griffin
sgriffin3 [at] southshorehealth.org

The Massachusetts Department of Public Health has released updated guidance to hospitals in order to better preserve resources at this time. Effective December 27, 2021, all hospitals – including South Shore Hospital, are directed to postpone or cancel all nonessential elective procedures which are likely to result in hospital admissions, in order to maintain and increase inpatient capacity.

The order applies to hospitals that have less than 15 percent of beds available, and only to procedures that are scheduled in advance and can be delayed without having a negative effect on patients’ health. It does not apply to urgent and essential procedures.

No patient who is deemed in immediate need will go without the services they require. South Shore Health will continue to update patients on the availability of medical services, and we encourage patients to reach out to their provider if they have any questions about their care.

If your surgery is affected, your surgeon’s office has been notified and they will reach out to you.

Screening procedures such as mammograms and colonoscopies will continue. Please do not delay any screening tests you have scheduled. Emergency care, as always, is available 24 hours a day.

Please continue to wear a mask, wash your hands, avoid gatherings, and stay at home whenever possible to help slow the spread and ease the strain on the Commonwealth’s healthcare system.

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we work to keep our community healthy.