Midlands hospitals cancel visiting hours to combat coronavirus threat

Hospital visiting times across Birmingham and the Black Country have been restricted until further notice due to the coronavirus crisis.

In a bid to curb the threat of coronavirus Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust have terminated visiting to certain hospital wards and other hospitals in the region are following suit.

A spokesperson for the Sandwell and West Birmingham NHS Trust, said:

“From midday on Saturday 14th March there will be no general visiting on any of our wards or departments except for children, birthing partners, patients at end of life, and those who are unable to make decisions for themselves (in line with the mental capacity act regulations).

“In these cases the immediate next of kin will be able to visit and be with their relative.

“In order to help patients keep in contact with their relatives, we have put in place equipment so that telephone and video calls can be made. This is available on every ward.

“From Monday 16th March a significant number of outpatient appointments will take place by telephone or through other technology, or may need to be rearranged. This is to help us to move staff into areas where they are most needed, but mainly to reduce the risks to you from avoidable travel.

“We are sorry for this inconvenience as we aim to limit the spread of coronavirus.”

Royal Wolverhampton NHS Trust and University Hospitals Birmingham are also introducing visiting restrictions in light of the coronavirus threat.

Visitors are asked to check ahead and confirm details with the relevant wards before making a journey to visit loved ones in hospital.