A new Angus Reid survey shows that 38 per cent of Canadians have missed medical appointments or procedures due to COVID-19 restrictions.

The Angus Reid Institute says the study finds the treatments aimed at stopping the pandemic’s spread, like cancelled or suspended surgeries or limited access to hospitals, are also causing side-effects for others in need of care unrelated to COVID-19.

Two-in-five Canadians, or 38 per cent, say they have faced barriers accessing medical appointments, regular treatment and scheduled procedures.

23 per cent of those affected say they have been unable to make a needed visit to their family doctor. 18 per cent say they’ve had to miss an appointment with a medical specialist, while 13 per cent say they have not been able to get tests done like an MRI or CT scan.

A whopping 76 per cent say it has had an adverse impact on their overall health.

Angus Reid says among low income Canadians, nearly one-in-ten say they have been unable to access treatment for a chronic illness.