Perth and Kinross residents no longer have to book appointments to visit majority of hospital inpatients

dailyrecord.co.uk:

NHS Tayside has confirmed that people will no longer have to book an appointment to visit the majority of hospital inpatients.However some coronavirus rules, including physical distancing and face coverings, will remain in place for now.Taking effect from today (June 10) the updated guidance follows the easing of COVID-19 restrictions across Scotland.Services in the oncology, haematology and renal departments will, however, still require appointments.Visitors are still being encouraged to discuss arrangements with the senior charge nurse and/or midwife to ensure all visits can be “safely accommodated”.There may be some circumstances where it is still not safe for a patient to have a visitor.

If this is the case, NHS staff will tell you why and keep it under review where possible.Despite the easing of restrictions visitors are still recommended to take a lateral flow test before visiting anyone in hospital.Visitors are encouraged to maintain a one metre distance to reduce transmission risks.No visit will be permitted if a visitor is unwell, has symptoms of COVID-19, or is currently in isolation.Visitors must still wear a fluid resistant face mask at all times and are provided at hospital entrances.Movement around the hospital must be limited as much as possible and any gathering in public areas of the hospital must be avoided.Maternity and neonatal service visitors are being asked to use an LFD test ahead of a visit and have received a negative result.Pregnant women may identify one support person to accompany them to all scans and antenatal appointments.Pregnant women may identify one birth partner to accompany them throughout labour and birth.