DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH
News Release issued by COI News Distribution Service. 6 January 2008
Hospitals in
England should consider allowing more liberal use of mobile
phones, following new guidance issued today by the Department of Health.
The updated guidance indicates that NHS trusts should consider
giving patients, staff and visitors the widest possible use of
mobile phones, where it doesn't interfere with equipment, the
privacy of others or cause a nuisance.
The new guidance stipulates that mobile phone use should continue
to be restricted in areas where critical care equipment
susceptible to electro magnetic interference is used. Areas where
phones should not be used should be clearly indicated so that
patients and staff are fully aware.
Health Minister Ben Bradshaw said:
"Close support and comfort from loved ones when you are
poorly in hospital is essential. Mobiles phones are commonplace in
everyday life these days and people have told us that they'd
like to be able to use their phones more in hospital to keep in touch.
"That's why we're keen to encourage sensible use
in NHS hospitals where it is safe to do so, in addition to other
services offered in hospitals such bedside payphones, TV and
internet access."
Decisions on appropriate usage of mobile phones are made locally
by trusts and should take full account of the Medicines and
Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) recommendations on
the safe use of mobile phones in hospitals.
Clive Bray, Director of Device Technology and Safety at the
Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency said:
"The MHRA recognises that mobile phones provide a practical
way for patients to keep in touch with friends and relatives
during their hospital stay. We welcome the clarification in
guidance on the use of mobile phones in non critical areas."
Notes to Editors:
1. The guidelines can be viewed at: http://www.dh.gov.uk/en/Managingyourorganisation/Estatesandfacilitiesmanagement/index.htm
2. The guidance was first produced in August 2006. This revision
replaces the second guidance published in May 2007. In updating
this guidance, the Department of Health has consulted the National
Patient Safety Agency (NPSA) and the Medicines and Healthcare
products Regulatory Agency (MHRA).
3. The Department of Health regularly keeps guidance issued to
Primary Care Trusts under review to reflect patient views and
changing circumstances.
4. This guidance provides useful links to relevant source
information, which NHS Trusts should refer to before developing
their mobile phone usage policy and when carrying out their local
risk assessment.
5. Other services provided within the hospital include bedside
telephones, hospital payphones, TVs and internet access.
6. For further information, please contact the Department of
Health press office on: 020 7210 5221.