News

COVID-19 testing requirement for elective surgery

Fri, 07 Aug 2020 07:33:00

Patients undergoing elective surgery at Mildura Base Hospital or Mildura Health Private Hospital from Monday 17th August 2020 will be required to have a negative COVID-19 test prior to surgery.

In line with Victorian Government directives, new elective surgery provisions are being implemented at public and private hospitals, including MBH and MHPH, from next week.
Patients booked for surgery the week commencing 10/8/20 do not require a test.
MBH Director of Intensive Care Alison Walker said a requirement for a pre-surgery COVID-19 test was an important safeguard.
“We will contact each patient directly to let them know what they should do, and where they need to get tested,” Dr Walker said.
“After their test, they will need to remain isolated from others other than members of their own household, and have no visitors until they go for their procedure or surgery,” she said.
“It is an added requirement and a small inconvenience, but it is so important that we keep doing all we can to keep our patients, staff and community safe.”
Under the current arrangements for elective surgery in Victoria, Mildura Base Hospital is permitted to continue to perform elective surgery on Category One and Urgent Category Two cases, as well as emergency operating.
In addition, any other surgery that is already booked is permitted and where possible will proceed as scheduled.

Pictured: Dr Alison Walker