Manx Care has updated its visiting policy at Noble’s, the Health Minister has told Tynwald.
In a written answer Claire Christian said the revised policy aims to provide a “more person-centred and flexible approach” while maintaining “safe, dignified and effective clinical environments”.
Standard adult inpatient visiting hours remain 2pm to 8pm daily.
However, the policy now explicitly supports open visiting for patients receiving end-of-life care, those with dementia or cognitive impairment, people with learning disabilities or neurodiversity and patients experiencing significant distress.
Policy
Ms Christian said: “The policy also makes clear that decisions regarding flexibility are based on clinical need, patient wellbeing, safety, dignity and the wider ward environment, with discretion held by the Nurse-in-Charge.”
Where a patient lacks capacity under the Capacity Act 2023, decisions on visiting must be made in the patient’s best interests.
Ms Christian added that the revised policy “specifically recognises the importance of carers, relatives and key communicators in supporting patients who may lack capacity or have additional needs”.
Manx Care will continue to keep visiting arrangements under review.