POLOKWANE – Visits by family members and friends to their loved ones in hospital depends on a mix of policies which have been implemented by the individual hospitals. Both Netcare Pholoso and Mediclinic Limpopo have updated their visitation policy in line with the latest Coronavirus situation in the country.

Netcare Pholoso

“The health and safety of our patients, healthcare workers and communities remain our top priority at Netcare hospitals, therefore all visitors will be screened before they can access out facilities.”

In a statement issued on 8 February, Jacques du Plessis, Managing Director of Netcare hospitals says visitation to non-Covid-19 wards will now be facilitated between 11:00-19:00. “The patient is limited to one visitor per day. These visitors will still undergo screening and follow all health protocols before they can access the facility.” He adds that a mask with a vent or a buff is not considered to be a sufficient barrier.

He explains that should a visitor not pass the screening process or follow the necessary health protocols, they will be refused entrance.

No visitation will be permitted to areas where patients, who are suspected to be Covid-19 positive or Covid-19 positive patients, are being treated. Exception will be made when it comes to end-of-life situations and these visits will be conducted under the direct supervision of hospital management, Du Plessis adds.

Maternity

A birthing partner will be allowed to accompany the person giving birth, attend the delivery and stay with the mother when she is transferred to a room.

https://www.citizen.co.za/review-online/453765/give-them-a-call-stay-informed-with-netcares-support-line/

Pediatrics

One parent is permitted to room-in with the admitted child. This parent will be required to present proof of a negative status (PCR or Antigen test) result upon admission of the child. Intermittent testing during the stay may be required. In instances where a parent is unable to room-in, daily visitation by one parent at a time will be allowed.

Read more here

Mediclinic Limpopo

“We believe that allowing patients access to their loved ones is an essential part of the healing process, for this reason each patient has access to one designated visitor on a daily basis.”

A family member or friend can visit the hospital, complete the screening process and access the patient between 11:00 and 17:00 each day, says MC Botha, Hospital General Manager at Mediclinic Limpopo.

“Last week the hospital updated their visitation policy to allow a Covid-19 negative patient to have one visitor per day. The length of the visits will be managed.”

He explains that visitation rights are not just restricted to Covid-19 negative patients, but that visitors are also allowed to visit Covid-19 positive or suspected Covid-19 patients. “Each patient’s case will be dealt with on an individual basis and all visits will be conducted in line with Covid-19 rules and regulations and health protocols.”

Visitors should also take note of the following:

• Designated visitors should be over the age of 12

• Access for partners accompanying obstetric (pregnancy, childbirth and the postpartum period) patients is allowed.

Mediclinic experts answer your FAQs about pregnancy, birth and COVID-19: https://t.co/Uchsj4KIGG

— Mediclinic SA (@Mediclinic) February 8, 2021

• Surgery patients may be accompanied by one person during the admission process and to the entrance of the applicable theatre.

• All visitors are required to wear a mask at all times

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, visiting arrangements are subject to change without prior notice.  Visitors to both facilities are recommended to contact the relevant the hospital prior to your visit to confirm visiting arrangements.