During the current pandemic some trial activity has been rescheduled or postponed. However, patients who are receiving sight saving treatments as part of their trial are continuing to attend clinic for critical continuity of care.

The safety of our patients is paramount. Our research staff are in contact with existing trial patients to keep them up to date with the status of their appointments.

Everyone who attends our clinic can be assured that the following safety protocols are in place.

Masks and temperature checks on entry

• All patients, carers and staff are required to wear face masks or face coverings in the building. Upon entry to the Eye and Ear on the Park, or main Royal Victorian Eye and Ear Hospital building, concierge staff will offer all visitors a mask.
• All patients, carers and staff will also have their temperature checked and be asked to sanitise their hands before entering the building.

Protective equipment

• All of our clinical staff will wear personal protective equipment. Protective screens have been placed on our eye testing equipment to prevent droplet spread between staff and patients.

Hand hygiene

• All of our staff are continuing to observe strict hand hygiene protocols.
• Additional hand sanitiser stations for patients are also available in the Clinical Trials Research Centre and Macular Research Unit.

Cleaning

• Additional cleaning and disinfection has been introduced in the clinic and waiting room space.
• Waiting areas have been arranged to enable appropriate physical distancing.
• Our staff also maintain physical distancing when they are not in the clinic – with appropriate distancing between their work spaces and all meetings conducted remotely.

Carers

• If patients are able to attend an appointment by themselves this is preferred – but they are able to bring one carer when needed.

Symptoms

• Patients or carers who have a temperature, any cold or flu-like symptoms including a cough, runny nose or have been in contact with a confirmed or suspected case of COVID-19 should stay at home. Research staff are calling patients in advance of appointments to ask these questions.
• You can contact your trial coordinator to discuss alternative arrangements if you are not able to attend.