This marks the first time private and public patients have been subject to different restrictions during the coronavirus pandemic. | EXCLUSIVE
Patients waiting for elective surgery in Victoria's public hospitals will face even longer wait times, with the state government delaying a return to pre-coronavirus pandemic capacity as the COVID-19 outbreak puts pressure on the healthcare system.
Victorian Health Minister Jenny Mikakos said on Tuesday that Melbourne's lockdown would not affect patients already booked in for elective surgery, which "will be able to continue.""We understand the anxiety a patient can feel waiting for their surgery and thank all Victorians for their patience in these challenging times," the department's spokesman said.
"We are monitoring the situation very closely to ensure we have some capacity reserved to treat more coronavirus patients if necessary."
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