Patient visiting to be suspended at Pilgrim Hospital in Boston due to rise in Covid-19 cases

This two-week change to visiting arrangements which starts tomorrow (Thursday) is a response to increasing numbers of COVID-19 cases both in the community and among staff and patients at the hospital.

For now, visiting arrangements at Lincoln County Hospital remain the same as previously- by pre-bookable appointments.

Deputy Director of Nursing for United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust Angela Davies, said: “The new visiting restrictions for Pilgrim hospital are part of the work we are doing to protect our patients, staff and visitors during the COVID-19 pandemic and limit the spread of this virus.

“Putting in place restrictions of this kind is a difficult decision, but we ask our patients and public to bear with us as it is a necessary step at this time.

“This move reflects similar action taken by hospitals across the country in recent weeks.”

The only exceptions to visiting restrictions are:

- The maternity department will allow one birthing partner to attend

- Parents who do not show the symptoms of infection can visit their children

- Visiting of end of life patients

Any other visits are by exception only and typically will be granted on compassionate grounds agreed in advance with the nurse in charge of the ward. No visitors under 16 will be allowed.

Wards will be offering the opportunity for families to talk to relatives via Skype or FaceTime where possible. Families can also take advantage of the ‘Letter to a Loved One’ scheme, full details can be found on the Trust website.

PLEASE NOTE: Anyone attending the Emergency Department or for an outpatient appointment is expected to attend alone. Please only bring a maximum of one other person if assistance is required.