Partners can attend antenatal scans

Director of Public Health Dr Nicola Brink said partners should be able to attend appointments together regardless of whether they are in the same household bubble.

However, she said that medical director Dr Peter Rabey would have to confirm this.

‘I know this caused a lot of concern for a lot of islanders and thank you for bearing with us on this,’ Dr Brink said.

‘What is happening today... is that partners can come with their pregnant partner to their antenatal scan.’

So far the move has been welcomed with positive feedback, she said.

Some partners were unaware of the recent change and missed appointments.

Because of this Dr Brink asked for islanders to spread the word so that expectant parents do not miss experiencing the scan together.

For those expectant parents who do not live together, and are in the same household bubble, it is expected they can both attend, depending on certain conditions.

Transport to the hospital should remain separate, with social distancing in place and the appropriate personal protective equipment, such as a face covering.

‘I think it is not unreasonable under those circumstances for the partners still to attend. However, I need to have a big however there, this is up to Dr Rabey so I would require his agreement on this.’