Visitor restrictions remain in place at Taranaki Base and Hawera hospitals

13 July 2021

Taranaki DHB is extending its visitor restrictions at Taranaki Base and Hāwera hospitals until the end of the week, due to ongoing demand for patient care continuing at critical levels.

Chief executive Rosemary Clements says both hospitals are currently treating very high volumes of patients, and with staff sickness to manage there is no leeway for any more illness to walk through the doors.

“We have to prioritise the health and wellbeing of our patients and staff, we can’t afford to have unwell people visiting our hospitals for risk of winter bugs spreading so we’re extending our visitor policy to at least Friday at this stage.”

The temporary no visitor policy is for children under the age of 16 and anyone who is unwell. Children who have hospital appointments are still welcome to attend if they’re in good health, but anyone who is sick must reschedule their appointment for when they’re feeling better.

General hospital visits are also being restricted to one person per patient where possible, except for maternity, the children’s ward and palliative care. Other exceptions may be considered based on compassionate grounds.

Mrs Clements says there is security at the main entrance doors at Base Hospital to help with the visitor policy, but people are welcome to discuss their intentions on arrival.

“We encourage good communication with our security team, just let them know if you’re coming in for an appointment, that’s different to visiting.”

Local Emergency Departments continue to swell with large numbers of people presenting daily.

“Over the weekend saw record numbers of people flocking into our ED’s, some who would’ve been better going to Medicross, Phoenix or a pharmacy for their non-urgent issues.

“In ED we’re dealing with an increase in respiratory issues which is consistent with winter illnesses, but we’re grateful Taranaki is not getting hit as hard as some other regions.

“We’ve managed to maintain a good level of surgical and outpatient services, but with the ongoing patient demand we may have to consider reducing some of these. We’ll contact people if they’re going to be impacted. If you don’t hear from us then please come to your appointments as scheduled,” says Mrs Clements.

Last updated: Wednesday, July 14, 2021