Our world has changed, we have too
In the face of extraordinary challenge, healthcare has been transformed, but our dedication to safe, high-quality care has remained the same. When you visit us, you will notice we have put new measures in place to support this.
From extra infection prevention measures, to the layout of our hospitals with social distancing in mind, everything we do has been reviewed to make sure we are providing the safest places for your care. These measures are guided by both national and international best practice.
As the situation with COVID-19 continues to change and develop, so too will the measures we have in place, so that we can continue to do what we have always set out to do: deliver exceptional care in the safest possible environment.
While there may be local differences in the government guidance and restrictions around COVID-19, seeking medical help remains an essential reason for travel.
Do not delay seeking help if you have a health concern
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Watch our video on our enhanced safety measures
Virtual consultations
Remote consultations by phone or video are available for both primary (GP) and secondary (consultant) care on secure platforms. You can book the latter through each consultant’s medical secretary.
Screening
We screen all patients, visitors and staff for COVID-19 on arrival. The screening process involves you answering a set of verbal questions. We also check your temperature.
Staff testing
Appropriate COVID-19 testing has been made available to all of our clinical staff and support workers. The continuous testing our staff undergo allows us to better understand and manage any cases of COVID-19 in our hospitals and clinics.
Self isolating
If you are visiting us for certain diagnostic tests or being admitted for a procedure, you will be required to self-isolate prior to doing so.
Depending on your health and the nature of your treatment, you may need to isolate for a period of time beforehand. Your consultant and medical team will give you more information on this.
Up to three days before coming to hospital you will have a test for COVID-19. All patients will be required to have a test and follow our strict self-isolation guidance between the COVID-19 test being taken and attending hospital.
Social distancing
To minimise contact between patients, outpatient appointments will be staggered. Patients should not arrive more than 15 minutes before their appointment. Please stay safe by following on-site guidance and remaining two metres apart.
Hospital environments
All disinfection measures have been enhanced, including increasing the number of hand sanitiser stations.
Visit us alone
We request that you attend your appointment, or admission, alone. In exceptional circumstances, such as if you require an interpreter or carer to accompany you, please contact us before your visit to discuss potential options. For maternity and paediatrics, only one visitor can attend - these include a parent or guardian visiting children or a birthing partner.
Masks
We ask all patients, visitors and staff to wear a mask when in our hospitals and clinics.
All patients will be provided with face masks and asked to wear these at all times when moving around the hospital as well as when anyone enters the room.
Washing your hands
Hand sanitisers can be found throughout our hospitals and clinics. Please use these handwashing zones regularly. You should wash your hands, thoroughly, for at least 20 seconds.