Essential outpatient appointments to restart at the Trust | News

One way systems, assigned entrances and adjusted waiting areas are all part of the preparations that the Trust has put in place to keep patients and staff safe as on-site appointments are re-introduced from Monday, 1 June.

Jacqui Tingle, Director of Infection Prevention and Control, said: “Although the number of seriously ill patients with Covid-19 in the Trust continues to decline, we know that Covid-19 will be with us for some time yet.

“This means that we need to start to see and treat some outpatients face-to-face.

“Of course, where it is possible and appropriate to do so, we will continue to offer outpatient appointments via phone or video, but for some patients we need to see them in person.

“We understand though that for many people the thought of coming into the hospital might make the, feel a little anxious, so here are some of the ways that we will keep patients and staff safe during their visit.

“We are reducing the number of patients who are seen face-to-face at the same time and we have adjusted waiting rooms and clinic rooms to maintain social distancing (if possible).

“We will also be introducing one-way systems in many areas, and reducing the number of patients using the main hospital entrance.

“Our drive-thru services for Pharmacy, Maternity, St. Luke’s and Cardiac Pacing, will also continue to run.”

All patients who are invited for a face-to-face appointment will be asked to complete a screening questionnaire at 14 days and 24 hours before their outpatient appointment. This will also be repeated on arrival at hospital for their appointment.

Other measures to ensure safety include:

• Detailed instructions and a site map, with which entrance to use, included with appointment letters
• Clear signage for one-way systems around the hospital
• Two metre markers for social distancing
• Socially distanced waiting rooms
• The use of PPE by the clinician where social distancing is not possible
• Temperature checking for some specific clinics.

Mrs Tingle added: “Please remember that although many NHS services look a little different, we are here for you if you need us.

“If you feel unwell, it is important that you seek help. Remember, you can access a lot of advice and guidance online at www.nhs.uk , from freephone NHS 111, your pharmacy, or GP.”

More information on the re-introduction of services is available on the Trust’s social media channels.