The Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) will continue to observe some COVID-19 public health protocols until January 31 next year.
In a media release signed by executive chairman Juliette Bynoe-Sutherland, it pointed out that while the Emergency Directives came to an end on Wednesday, “as a health care institution, we remain committed to the safety of our patients”.
As a result, there will be mandatory mask-wearing for staff, visitors and patients; mandatory COVID-19 testing of patients on entry to the hospital via the Accident & Emergency or hospital admission and isolation of COVID-19 positive QEH patients at designated isolation centres.
These protocols will be reviewed at the end of January.
“In the meantime, an interdisciplinary Technical Working Group will be established under the guidance of the Office of the Director of Medical Services and the Infection Control Department. This Group will examine the existing practices and protocols that have been in place with a view of making changes where necessary,” the release said.
On Wednesday, Chief Medical Officer The Most Honourable Dr Kenneth George announced the end of the COVID-19 Directive as well as mandatory mask-wearing in schools and on public transport.
George also said mask-wearing protocols would continue at public health facilities while privately-owned medical establishments would have to make their own policy determination. (PR/SAT)