Back on Track: Surgery and Procedure Updates

June is looking very different from this past March. While we continue to treat COVID-19 patients, the number of people with coronavirus is steadily decreasing in Connecticut. And Yale New Haven Hospital safely resumed services that were deferred when the pandemic started. We understand that some people may be concerned about returning for care. Our goal is to make sure you feel safe and confident that you are in great hands, thanks to our outstanding providers and staff.

Staff busy rescheduling appointments and making new ones

Our staff is currently contacting patients whose surgeries were deferred, prioritizing cases based on clinical need. They will work with you to reschedule your surgery appointment and provide you with additional instructions. We are also scheduling new patients. If you have questions, call your doctor’s office for the latest updates.

Important information about your
COVID-19 test

We are taking added precautions for our surgery patients, including testing for COVID-19. As part of your work-up before your procedure, we will test you for COVID-19.

• The staff will give you an appointment to be tested at one of our Yale New Haven Health System test tents.
• Please note that you must be tested at one of the Yale New Haven Health System test locations. If you do not have your test before your surgery, your procedure will be rescheduled for a later date.
• Tests from other facilities are not valid.
• For surgical cases, you must be tested 1 - 2 days before your surgical procedure.
• For endoscopy and GI procedures, you must be tested 2 days prior to your procedure.
• If you do not receive a phone call to schedule a COVID screening appointment and it is 2 days before your procedure, call your surgeon’s office.

If you have any transportation or mobility issues that prevent you from keeping your testing appointment, please call your surgeon’s office. Once you receive your scheduled procedure date, continue to observe strict social isolation. Remember to wash your hands frequently. If you go out in public, wear a mask, and keep 6 feet away from others.

When minutes count, seek emergency care

Don’t forgo critical care. We have steps in place to reduce risk of infection for your safety. You put yourself at greater risk of serious medical complications if you don’t seek care during an emergency. Ignoring symptoms of serious disease, such as stroke or heart attack, is a far more deadly choice. Chest pains, slurred speech and seizure are life-threatening symptoms. Call 9-1-1 immediately or go directly to the emergency department. Our emergency departments are fully staffed and ready to take care of you while keeping you safe.