Portland District Health has closed its doors to visitors in a bid to stop the spread of coronavirus.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
There are no confirmed cases of COVID-19 in Portland but the hospital announced on Thursday that it would close all of its facilities to visitors and contractors.
PDH doesn't have an intensive care unit or intensive care beds, and has just two ventilators (respirators).
A spokesperson encouraged people to use their phones to call, Facetime or text message patients as a form of communication with their loved ones.
Special exceptions to visiting rights include:
- Partner or nominated support person can visit the midwifery department
- A maximum of two nominated visitors in palliative care
Those who wish to visit the palliative care unit must call the nurse unit manager in south ward on 5521 0344
People requiring services that are still available can only enter the health service via the main entrance off Fern Street, where they will be taken through a health screen check prior to proceeding to clinical areas.
The hospital has urged people not to enter the health service if they have a cough, sore throat or fever.
Community Transport will only be available for patients receiving essential clinical treatments such as radiotherapy and all group session have been cancelled
"We understand this may cause concern for some members of our community, however, social distancing measures are seen as the best defence in delaying the spread of the virus," a hospital spokesperson said.
"We are collaborating with other key partners to develop a 'Helping Hands' program to assist people who are vulnerable and require additional support during this time.
"We will advise once we have the program up and running.
"Thank you for your ongoing support. If you have any queries or concerns, please contact Portland District Health on 5521 0333."
The service opened a dedicated COVID-19 assessment clinic on Wednesday which will operate from 10am to 2pm.
We have removed our paywall from our stories about the coronavirus. This is a rapidly changing situation and we want to make sure our readers are as informed as possible. If you would like to support our journalists you can subscribe here.