The delayed results of the COVID-19 crisis could have real consequences in residents’ mental health if delays in elective procedures drag on, two local doctors said.
“I see patients on all ends of the spectrum someone who really could wait a little bit, but also a lot of patients who delayed surgery a long time, to begin with,” Dr. Richard Berger said at Rush.
Dr. Berger typically performs 1,500 hip and knee replacements a year. In the last two weeks, he’s done zero.
“I have lots of patients who are now suffering because of increased pain,” Dr. Berger said. “Because they have to wait.”
Most joint replacements are considered elective procedures, which have been suspended to preserve resources for COVID-19 patients.