INDIANAPOLIS (WTHR) Ascension St. Vincent announced Sunday evening that it will cancel all non-urgent surgeries to ensure the hospital's resources for emergent health needs.

"As cases of COVID-19 increase, Ascension St. Vincent continues to diligently monitor the situation to ensure we are protecting our patients, employees and communities," St. Vincent said in a press release. "The following guidance was provided to our clinicians to assist in helping to manage their existing patients, protect against potential COVID-19 exposure and ensure the availability of resources to meet emergent health needs."

Starting Tuesday, March 17, all elective non-urgent surgeries will be canceled at Ascension St. Vincent Hospital Indianapolis.

Ascension St. Vincent says it is following the guidance of the CDC, Surgeon General, and American College of Surgeons which have recommended limiting elective services.

Examples of qualifying procedures include non-critical cardiac or neurosurgical procedures where deferral of care will not present risk of patient harm.

Examples of qualifying procedures include:

For patients having an outpatient procedure, the visitor will be allowed to stay with the patient until discharge.

Children 17 and younger will be permitted to have one parent or guardian stay with them post procedure.

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St. Vincent Indianapolis to cancel all 'elective non-urgent' surgeries - WTHR