Clinics in Ballarat are still reporting lower-than-normal patient rates, particularly for routine scans and treatment, despite COVID-19 restrictions easing across the state.

A Lake Imaging spokesperson said numbers in the Ballarat clinics were normally fairly stable this time of year. They said the concern in people putting off their scans was a later rush on clinics and potential further delays for results that could greatly affect lives.

This is a similar warning Heart Foundation's chief medical officer Garry Jennings made to The Courier last month in regards to health needs like cholesterol checks.

Oncology teams across the region have also made clear they were still on hand for all cancer patients but with an increase in telehealth and phone checks, this demanded a real openness and honesty to work effectively.

The Victorian government has warned putting off a visit to the doctor or hospital if experiencing any lumps, unusual symptoms or delaying age-appropriate tests that could indicate cancer, could lead to more severe illness and added strain on hospitals' critical and intensive care resources.

Lake Imaging is encouraging people to book in for scans now, before the cold and flu season fully hit.

Anyone not showing symptoms for COVID-19, like a runny nose or sore throat, or deemed a high-risk category is urged to keep their scan appointments.

Lake Imaging radiologist Alex Meakin said safety was at the fore of their work.

"Radiology is an indispensable part of modern medical practice and despite the pandemic many people continue to require our involvement in the diagnosis, monitoring and treatment of their medical conditions," Dr Meakin said. "We feel a strong sense of responsibility to care for these patients and have endeavoured to maintain a fully comprehensive and accessible service to provide for their needs."

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Victorian Health Minister Jenny Mikakos this week moved to reassure that the state's hospitals were now well-prepared to deal with any further potential spikes along with everyday services.

The Minister said there were strict infection controls in place across the health sector, including general practitioners and cancer screenings. This comes as Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre reported a 40 per cent fall in referrals as people delay visiting their doctor or going to hospital.

The Courier has confirmed, while not at the same rate as Peter Mac, Ballarat Health Services had experienced a similar significant downward trend. No exact figures were available.

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