The Health Service of the Autonomous Region of Madeira (SESARAM) has temporarily suspended visits to patients admitted to the Emergency Department of Dr Nélio Mendonça Hospital. The measure came into effect immediately and will remain in place until the situation is reassessed.
The suspension applies to the two usual visiting periods, between 12:30 pm and 1:00 pm and between 7:30 pm and 8:00 pm.
In a statement, SESARAM said the decision was taken for clinical and operational safety reasons, at a time when the Emergency Department is experiencing high occupancy levels.
According to the organisation, around 50 patients are currently waiting to be admitted to hospital wards. Of these, 10 have already been medically discharged but remain in hospital while awaiting referral to appropriate community-based support services.
To reduce the impact of the temporary suspension on families, SESARAM said it has strengthened the teams within the Family Support Office and the Emergency Department Secretariat by assigning additional staff. The aim, it said, is to ensure that families continue to be properly informed about the situation of their relatives.
SESARAM stressed that its priority remains the well-being of patients and ensuring the best possible conditions for the provision of healthcare.
The organisation added that the suspension of visits will be reviewed regularly and appealed for the understanding and cooperation of patients, relatives, and visitors.
Pressure on hospital capacity remains high. According to figures released by SESARAM, Dr Nélio Mendonça Hospital currently has around 200 patients who have received medical clearance for discharge but remain in hospital because they are waiting for placement in community care facilities or other support services.
SESARAM said this situation continues to affect bed availability and the management of hospital services.
Samantha Gannon
info at madeira-weekly.com
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