AS PLAN B restrictions are lifted in England, healthcare providers in Herefordshire and Worcestershire are reminding the public that COVID-19 guidance remains in place within healthcare settings.
Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust, the main provider of mental health services across both counties, and community hospitals in Worcestershire, are calling on the support of visitors to do their bit and protect patients, staff and other visitors from the risks of COVID-19.
Despite the lifting of national restrictions on Thursday enhanced infection prevention control guidelines and hospital visiting guidance remains in place across healthcare settings in England.
This means staff, visitors and patients must to continue to socially distance where possible, practice good hand hygiene and wear an approved face mask when entering NHS sites – unless they are exempt.
Dr John Devapriam, Medical Director at Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health and Care NHS Trust said, “It remains an exceptionally challenging time for the NHS and we must do what we can to reduce the transmission of COVID-19, particularly to those who are most vulnerable.
“Our patients, visitors and staff have done an exceptional job protecting each other throughout pandemic and we ask that this continues while transmission of the virus is still prevalent.
“I urge the public to do what they can to reduce their risk by adhering to the above guidance when visiting our sites, having their COVID-19 vaccinations, and remaining cautious where restrictions no longer apply”.
The Trust also maintains its visiting restrictions, in place to reduce footfall and minimise any potential spread of COVID-19 to both patients and staff.
Under current guidance, those visiting their loved ones must arrange their visit in advance and provide proof of a negative lateral flow test result before attending.
Visiting restrictions have been in place at the Trust since the start of the pandemic, with the exception of end of life care and exceptional circumstances.
