Ongoing Epidural Catheter Shortage

Grand River, Cambridge Memorial, Groves Memorial and Guelph General hospitals are aware of the ongoing shortage of epidural catheters and are working together to manage this issue. These catheters are used mostly to support childbirth patients and in some cases, for lower extremity surgeries.

At this time, hospitals have supply in stock and Waterloo Wellington patients have not been impacted.

Waterloo Wellington hospitals continue to monitor its supply, conserve and share resources. Ontario Health also continues to watch provincial stock closely.

Should supply become an issue, Waterloo Wellington hospitals will communicate how epidural catheters will be managed to ensure that epidural catheters are available for high priority patients. Our commitment is to ensure all patients have access to pain management support should they want it during childbirth or while undergoing a lower extremity surgery.

Not related to the supply shortage, there are many medical reasons why a patient might not get an epidural when requested. If you have questions about your specific situation, you are encouraged to speak to your doctor or care team.

Please check the Grand River, Cambridge Memorial, Groves Memorial and Guelph General Hospital websites for ongoing updates.