BAKERSFIELD, Calif. — Dignity Health Mercy and Memorial hospitals have begun resuming elective procedures for the first time since March, following guidelines implemented amid COVID-19.

Non-emergency related procedures were postponed by the California Department of Healthcare Services on March 24 due to the coronavirus. This decision came based on guidelines released by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

In its guidance, CMS announced that all elective surgeries, non-essential medical, surgical, and dental procedures should be delayed during the COVID-19 situation.

This week, Dignity confirmed it is moving towards beginning those procedures again.

Patients can make an appointment online or by contacting their doctor.

Diginity Health is also continuing to offer virtual urgent care options.