COVID-19: Important information for visitors to Forensicare.

COVID-19 and Influenza A: Important information for visitors to Forensicare

COVID-19 and Influenza A: Important information for visitors to Forensicare

Updated: 29 December 2023

To reduce the risk of COVID-19 and Influenza A entering Forensicare services, there are requirements in place for visitors to Forensicare.

We work closely with the Department of Health and follow updated guidelines as they are announced.

Please continue to check this page for new information which may be relevant to you.

Visiting Forensicare during COVID-19   or Influenza A

Please see below for detailed information about visiting Forensicare services.

Thomas Embling Hospital

Please note: In the event of a suspected or confirmed case of COVID-19, or an Influenza A outbreak, visiting conditions may change without notice to ensure the safety and well-being of everyone at the hospital.

COVID-safe requirements for visiting the hospital

  • Screening questions: Visitors may need to answer some screening questions including whether they have any flu-like symptoms or have recently tested positive for COVID.
  • Masks: Visitors may be required to wear an N95 or surgical mask while visiting the hospital to protect against COVID 19 and Influenza A. These will be provided at reception.

Other options for families and carers

To ensure you can say in touch with your family or friend at the hospital, we can support you to use Skype.  

Skype is an application (or “app”) which allows people to speak via a video link over the internet. Skype can be used on computer, mobile phones (Apple or Android) and tablet devices. Use of Skype for video calls is free. For information about Skype, please visit www.skype.com. If you’ve never used Skype before or are having trouble using it, please get in touch with the unit social worker. If you are unable to access a phone or the internet, we can facilitate you using Skype in a room near the reception area of the hospital.

Community Forensic Mental Health Services

All Community Forensic Mental Health Service (CFMHS) clients are required to complete an online COVID screening form prior to attending their appointment. If you cannot access the form online, please contact our CFMHS reception team prior to your visit on 9947 2500 and we can assist you in completing the form.

The screening form asks questions such as:

  • Are you awaiting a COVID-19 test result?
  • Are you unwell with symptoms of COVID-19, such as a cough, sore throat, runny nose, shortness of breath, fever or loss or change in sense of smell or taste?
  • Do you have a temperature higher than 37.5 degrees?
  • Are you newly arrived in Australia (within the last 14 days)?
  • Are you awaiting clearance from isolation having been diagnosed with COVID-19?
  • Are you within 14 days of being exposed to COVID-19 (for example, contact with a confirmed case of COVID-19)?

If you answer yes to any of these questions you may be asked to reschedule your visit.

If you are unsure about requirements or have any questions, please contact our CFMHS reception team prior to your visit on 9947 2500.

Prisons

Visitors to any of our prison services will need to follow Corrections Victoria COVID-19 visiting procedures. Please check the Corrections Victoria website for details.

Where can I get up-to-date information on COVID-19? 

Stay up-to-date with the latest COVID-19 information via the DHHS website: 

If you are at risk of COVID-19, or are concerned about your symptoms, you can also call the COVID-19 hotline 1800 020 080. 

More information 

For more information on visiting Forensicare, please contact: 

  • Thomas Embling Hospital reception team on 9495 9100 
  • Community Forensic Mental Health Service reception team on 9947 2500 
  • Visit the Corrections Victoria website 

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