With 919 hospitalized across Ontario due to COVID-19, including 263 in intensive care, the group representing hospitals wants new, stricter restrictions in hard-hit parts of the province.

The Ontario Hospital Association’s 19-member board of directors is asking the Ford government to impose a four-week lockdown in every region with an infection rate of 40-cases-per-100,000 or higher.

The OHA says it ”reluctantly and with deep regret” asks this be done in order to protect people as well as ensure hospitals do not face a surge in COVID patients after Christmas.

”We are now in the holiday season and if members of the public choose to ignore public health measures and gather oustide their households, the consequences risk overwhelming Ontario’s hospitals,” the OHA statement reads.

The association goes on to say hospitals are struggling to keep up while also trying to catch up on about 150,000 procedures that were postponed during the first wave of the spring.

”Evidence is mounting that the hidden toll on human health from this disruption in scheduled services will be heavy.  Our communities are tired, and so are those caring for them,” the statement adds.

Premier Doug Ford says while he appreciates the input, he points out he talks to hospital CEO’s daily, but will not commit to any more measures just yet.

”It’s very very concerning, the situation we’re facing right now,” says Ford.

”Right now, everything is on the table.  We always take the advice from the medical experts.”