Hospital forced to defend visitor policy

Geelong Hospital has been forced to defend its visitor policy after a mother was told she couldn’t visit her husband in hospital with her five-month-old child.

The hospital only allows visitors under 16 in special circumstances.

Clare told 3AW her husband was taken to emergency at 2am on Saturday night.

She returned to the hospital the following morning, her baby understandably with her.

Soon after, she was confronted by the “nurse in charge” who told her she couldn’t be in the hospital with a baby.

“It’s been hard experience and this has just made it even harder,” Clare said.

Press PLAY below to hear her explain what happened

The hospital said it was “critical” to protect vulnerable patients by reducing the risk of exposure to COVID and influenza.

“Barwon Health allows visitors over the age of 16 years on a limited basis which is two visitors per patient per day. Exceptions are made on a case by case basis where the patient requires end-of-life care, those with life-limiting illnesses, or for the mental health and wellbeing of the patient,” a Barwon Health spokesperson told 3AW.

“Children up to the age of 16 years are able to visit on a case by case basis for compassionate reasons including end of life care, life limiting illnesses and the mental health and wellbeing of the family.  These arrangements are determined by the local nurse manager.”

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