Blood takers are back 'home' at Northampton General Hospital — but by appointment only

Northampton General Hospital's blood takers are 'going home' as the Covid-19 crisis eases.

Some patients were redirected to the nearby Three Shires private hospital from March, as NGH bosses prioritised services on the Cliftonville site in readiness for the expected surge in Covid-19 cases.

The phlebotomy team are now back in Area H of the main building — although visitors must make an appointment before attending.

A hospital spokesman said: "We have made a change to our service and all patients must now have an appointment to attend the blood taking unit.

"Appointments for both paediatric and adult blood taking can be booked Monday to Friday between 9am and 3:30pm by phoning on 01604 523303 or 01604 544190.

"To minimise the risk to patients during the pandemic, as a temporary measure, patients attending appointments will not need to bring their pathology request form with them.

"The adult phlebotomy service will be from 8am - 4pm Monday to Friday and 8am – 12.30pm on Saturday.

"The paediatric service will return to the blood taking unit 8am – 11.30am, Monday – Friday.

"All patients must wear a face covering, maintain social distancing and must attend alone where possible.

"The waiting area has limited spaces so please only attend at the time of your appointment.

"If there are any reasons why wearing a face covering or attending alone is not possible, please inform the team when booking your appointment."

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