Understanding the Epworth Richmond visiting hours is essential for anyone planning a trip to this leading private hospital in Melbourne.
Please check the current visiting hours before you depart to ensure a smooth arrival for your loved ones.
These guidelines help maintain a restful environment for all patients receiving treatment at this world-class medical centre.
You should also consult the official Epworth Hospital website to confirm any recent changes to access protocols.
Standard Epworth Richmond Visiting Hours Overview
General wards at the facility operate under a unified schedule to help families organise their daily schedules around clinical requirements. This structure ensures that every patient receives adequate rest and professional attention throughout the day.
General Ward Access Times
Most acute and surgical wards allow visitors to enter during the morning and evening blocks to facilitate patient support. It is important to note that these times may vary slightly based on the specific needs of the ward staff.
| Day of the Week | Morning Session | Evening Session |
|---|---|---|
| Monday to Friday | 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM | 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM |
| Saturday and Sunday | 10:00 AM – 1:00 PM | 3:00 PM – 8:00 PM |
| Public Holidays | 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM | 3:00 PM – 7:00 PM |
Data last verified: February 2026
Rest Period Observations
The hospital enforces a strict quiet period between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM daily to encourage patient sleep. During this time, the Epworth Richmond visiting hours are suspended to allow for clinical handovers and therapeutic rest.
- No visitors are permitted in general wards during the rest period.
- Lights are often dimmed to create a calming environment.
- Staff movements are kept to a minimum for noise reduction.
- Emergency exceptions are managed by the nurse unit manager.
Specialised Ward Regulations And Exceptions
Certain departments require unique Epworth Richmond visiting hours due to the sensitive nature of the care provided there. These areas include the Intensive Care Unit and the various maternity suites located within the building.
Maternity Ward Guidelines
The maternity unit has specific rules to protect the health and privacy of new mothers and their infants. Partners are generally given broader access, while extended family members must adhere to specific time slots.
- Partners and support persons have 24-hour access to the maternity ward.
- General visitors are restricted to the afternoon session only.
- Siblings of the newborn are welcome during general visiting blocks.
- A maximum of two visitors per bedside is strictly enforced.
Data last verified: February 2026
Intensive Care Unit Protocols
The Intensive Care Unit or ICU maintains very restrictive Epworth Richmond visiting hours to ensure patient safety and infection control. Families must communicate directly with the ICU reception before entering the secure unit area.
- Only immediate family members are typically allowed in the ICU.
- Visiting is restricted to short periods to prevent patient exhaustion.
- Flowers and plants are not permitted in this specialised ward.
- Hand sanitisation is mandatory before and after every bedside visit.
Visitor Responsibilities And Safety Measures
The hospital staff appreciate your cooperation in maintaining a safe and healthy environment for all residents and employees. Visitors must follow certain behaviours to ensure that the healing process is not interrupted by external factors.
Infection Control Procedures
Maintaining a high standard of hygiene is a priority for the facility to prevent the spread of illness. Please refrain from visiting if you are feeling unwell or have recently been exposed to a virus.
- Utilise the hand rub stations located at every ward entrance.
- Wear a surgical mask if directed by the hospital signage.
- Cover your mouth when coughing or sneezing inside the building.
- Dispose of any personal waste in the appropriate bins provided.
Data last verified: February 2026
Code Of Conduct For Guests
Every person entering the facility must respect the privacy and dignity of all patients and staff members. Disruptive behaviour may lead to a request to leave the premises during the Epworth Richmond visiting hours.
- Keep noise levels low when walking through hospital corridors.
- Respect the privacy of other patients in shared rooms.
- Seek permission before taking any photographs or videos on-site.
- Follow all instructions provided by the security or nursing staff.
Essential Facilities And Ancillary Trading Hours
While you are observing the Epworth Richmond visiting hours, you may need to access various on-site amenities for food or gifts. These outlets have their own trading hours that align with the general hospital operations.
Retail And Dining Options
The ground floor hosts several cafes and a pharmacy to cater to the needs of guests and staff. These services ensure that you can remain comfortable during long periods of support for your family members.
| Service Name | Weekday Trading | Weekend Trading |
|---|---|---|
| Main Entrance Cafe | 6:30 AM – 7:00 PM | 8:00 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Hospital Pharmacy | 8:30 AM – 6:00 PM | 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM |
| Gift And Florist Shop | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM | 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM |
Data last verified: February 2026
Chaplaincy And Pastoral Care
Support for emotional and spiritual well-being is available to all visitors during the standard Epworth Richmond visiting hours. The multi-faith room is open to everyone seeking a moment of quiet reflection or prayer.
- The chapel is located on the second level for easy access.
- Pastoral care workers are available for consultation upon request.
- Religious services are held periodically throughout the month.
- Quiet spaces are designed to provide comfort to grieving families.
Directions And Transport For Visitors
The hospital is located in a vibrant part of Melbourne that is well-served by various transport links. Planning your journey in advance will help you arrive within the designated Epworth Richmond visiting hours without stress.
Public Transport Options
Many visitors choose to use the tram network to avoid the difficulties of finding a parking space in Richmond. The hospital is easily accessible from the city centre via several popular routes.
- Tram route 48 and 75 stop directly outside the hospital.
- West Richmond station is the closest train stop for visitors.
- Bus routes operate frequently along Bridge Road and Erin Street.
- Check the PTV app for real-time updates on Melbourne transport.
Data last verified: February 2026
Car Parking Facilities
On-site parking is available for those who prefer to drive to the medical centre for their visit. Be aware that parking fees apply and the car park can reach capacity during peak Epworth Richmond visiting hours.
- The main visitor car park is accessed via Erin Street.
- Disabled parking spaces are located close to the elevator banks.
- Short-term drop-off zones are available at the main entrance.
- Street parking in the surrounding area is often time-restricted.
Public Holidays And Time Zone Awareness
It is important to remember that all schedules are based on Australian Eastern Standard Time or Australian Eastern Daylight Time. These times may be adjusted during the busy Victorian public holiday periods throughout the calendar year.
Holiday Schedule Adjustments
During events like Christmas or Easter, the Epworth Richmond visiting hours might be shortened to allow staff to spend time with families. Always call the main reception to confirm the exact schedule before you travel on a holiday.
- New Year’s Day often follows a Sunday visiting schedule.
- ANZAC Day may involve morning restrictions for local ceremonies.
- Labour Day and Queen’s Birthday follow standard holiday hours.
- Melbourne Cup Day is a local holiday with modified access.
Data last verified: February 2026
AEST and AEDT Considerations
Daylight saving time begins in October and ends in April for all Victorian residents and visitors. Ensure your watch is set correctly so you do not miss the start of the Epworth Richmond visiting hours.
- Clocks move forward one hour in early October for AEDT.
- Clocks move back one hour in early April for AEST.
- Hospital systems automatically update to the correct local time.
- Travel times may be affected by the change in daylight hours.
Conclusion
Planning your journey around the Epworth Richmond visiting hours ensures that you can provide the best support for your friends and family.
This professional healthcare facility remains committed to balancing high-quality clinical care with the vital presence of loved ones.
Please remember to verify the Epworth Richmond visiting hours shortly before your visit to account for any sudden operational changes.
Following these guidelines helps everyone at the centre maintain a safe, quiet, and effective environment for recovery.