The proposed deal, which WakeMed has said includes a $2 billion investment, has drawn scrutiny from patients, residents and public officials.
Icy sidewalks, steps, driveways, and other potential frozen hazards have landed patients in the emergency department.
Hospitals across the Triangle have been busy treating a variety of sledding and other ice-related injuries.
"We actually have been proactively contacting some of our infusion patients, some of our dialysis patients, to see if we can do modified schedules."
The new restrictions go into place today.
A newborn baby was rushed to the emergency room with severe burns, but there was no burn unit, nor any ambulances available.