NHS Fife has suspended routine visits to all hospitals

All routine hospital visits have been suspended in Fife in response to the growing number of Covid-19 cases.

The suspension will begin at 7pm on Friday, November 6 and will be regularly reviewed.

NHS Fife Director of Public Health, Dona Milne, said of the changes: “We know that the suspension of routine visiting will be concerning for patients and their loved ones, however, we have seen a growing number of COVID-19 infections over recent weeks and it is clear that we have considerable spread of the virus within our communities in Fife. Some of the people becoming infected are becoming very unwell and are being admitted to our hospitals.

NHS Fife has given an update on routine hospital visits.

There are some areas which are exempt from this rule.

Pregnant women may identify a designated visitor to accompany them, those who are visiting someone receiving end of life care, those accompanying someone with mental health issues or learning difficulties and those accompanying children to hospital.

NHS Fife Medical Director, Dr Christopher McKenna, added: “COVID-19 poses a significant threat to those who are vulnerable and it is crucial that we take all reasonable steps to limit the opportunities for the virus to be brought into our hospitals.

“Importantly, while we don’t yet know how long these arrangements will remain in place for, patients and their loved ones can be assured that we will be doing all that we can to ensure those in our care can keep in touch with their loved ones while visiting remains suspended.”

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