Visitor restrictions at Alfred Health

One of the most difficult aspects of managing COVID-19 at Alfred Health has been the need to stop visitors from coming to our hospitals.

It has been upsetting for patients, for their families, and for staff. But we know it is essential to protect our vulnerable patients, and the staff caring for them. It is a move most hospitals across Melbourne have made, based on the best clinical evidence and guidance from the Department of Health and Human Services. 

Our intensive care unit is home to some of the sickest patients in Victoria – up to 50 at a time. The staff caring for them are dedicated experts in their field. To have COVID-19 come unknown into the unit – or any of our wards - with a visitor would have tragic consequences.

We’ve had instances of asymptomatic carers asking to visit, but then discovering they have COVID, so we know we need to be incredibly vigilant.

Staff work hard to maintain the connection between patients and loved ones. Daily briefings and Telehealth sessions ensure families are up-to-date and involved in care decisions. Family members are able to communicate with loved ones via phone or video calls, facilitated by staff.

Visitors are permitted for compassionate reasons in the instance of end-of-life care decision making and support, or if a patient is under the age of 18.

We are working towards a safe plan to allow visitors back to our hospitals consistent with the coronavirus road to recovery steps. But while community transmission is still apparent, it is not yet safe to take this step.