PCR Tests to be Mandatory for Hospital Visitors Starting August

The Hospital Authority has announced that starting Aug. 1, visitors to hospitals will be required to show a negative COVID-19 PCR-based test result obtained within the past 48 hours.

Free testing services will be provided at community testing centres or mobile specimen collection stations for those who indicate their purpose of visiting a public hospital. There is also the option for PCR tests from any recognised organisation, so long as the test performed was a combined nasal and throat swab conducted by a professional.

In the case of an emergency visit, visitors will be required to conduct a rapid antigen test (RAT) instead, with the result being submitted immediately when available. The visitor will also be required to submit a negative PCR test result within two days after the visit.

For loved ones visiting end-of-life patients, or for compassionate visits, visitors must provide a negative result from either a PCR test or RAT taken within 48 hours and 24 hours before the visit, respectively. The same post-visit testing rule applies to those using RAT in the above situation.

Those who pay a visit must also have a Vaccine Pass to prove they have received the required dosage of vaccination as well as scan the LeaveHomeSafe code upon entry.

A group exempted from the updated requirements are senior citizens seeking medical services at the hospital, as they are considered established patients. Prospective visitors will receive direct contact from hospital staff regarding their appointments and will not be required to call to arrange for visitation themselves. Compassionate visits and video arrangements will remain in operation across all hospitals as well.