Four in 10 children across Canada are waiting months—far beyond the recommended time frame—for their spinal surgery, according to a new study.

The report prepared by the Conference Board of Canada says 38 percent of kids waiting for scoliosis surgery have to wait more than six months before they have a chance to be treated.

“Wait times in Canada for spinal surgery that children need far exceed the recommended safe clinical time frame in several provinces,” said the report.