SSM Health due to ongoing practices to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, or coronavirus, is canceling elective procedures for at least eight weeks starting Monday.

Elective care is classified as care that can be delayed for eight weeks or more without risk to patients or families, and without compromising standards of care, according to an SSM news release.

The actions are in line with recommendations from the Centers for Disease Control and prevention, the American College of Surgeons, the Surgeon General and other specialty organizations, the release stated.

“This measure is intended to ensure that only urgent or time-sensitive procedures are provided, to protect our caregivers and the communities we serve, and to conserve the resources needed for the COVID-19 health crisis," SSM Health Regional President Mike Baumgartner said. “We are committed to consistently and transparently addressing issues our communities are encountering during this epidemic.”

SSM will re-evaluate processes as the situation evolves and will provide notice when it is appropriate to resume normal processes. Those with already scheduled procedures will be contacted by their health care provider to discuss rescheduling. Those who are unsure about a procedure’s status should contact their health care provider.