James O'Connor
Ceist:2205. Deputy James O'Connor asked the Minister for Health the position regarding visitors at a hospital (details supplied) in County Cork; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [20123/21]
Amharc ar fhreagraWednesday, 21 April 2021
Ceisteanna (2205)
Freagraí scríofa
I am aware of how difficult the current visitor restrictions are for those in hospitals and their families.
The HSE has advised that visiting arrangements in hospitals have changed to help protect patients and prevent the spread of COVID-19. Information/guidance for visitors to individual public hospitals is regularly updated on the HSE website.
Decisions on visitor restrictions are made, implemented and reviewed at hospital level. Such restrictions are necessary to protect the safety of patients, the wellbeing of staff and the operability of hospital services. However, you can be assured that in the context of what is a rapidly evolving situation, such restrictions are frequently reviewed.
Furthermore, it is essential that people do not visit hospitals if they have symptoms of coronavirus (high temperature, cough, shortness of breath or loss or change to your sense of smell or taste).
Regarding the specific hospital referred to by the Deputy, the Department of Health does not have responsibility for private hospitals and so cannot provide specific information in relation to that hospital.
Question No. 2206 answered with Question No. 1504.