Hi all you lovely people in Australia and USA! Can you use Mobile phones (cellphones) in hospitals?

Question

They are banned in the UK in case of "interfering with sensitive electronic equipment".
But more and more people are thinking that this is propaganda put out by those who run hospital phone lines.
What is your situation? Please.

Answer 1

It's been pretty well determined that modern medical equipment is well-shielded from cellular phone interference. Florida Hospital in Orlando has no restricted areas now. You can use your cell phone anywhere.

Equipment on airplanes is also well-shielded, btw. That one is definitely a scam.

Answer 2

Actually they are not banned in UK hospitals. Many hospitals now abide by BMA (doctors' organisation) guidelines which allow mobiles in some areas.
It's still best not to use your mobile on, say, a cardiac ward or other setting where it is possible the signals can interfere with the equipment.
It's the same as on an aircraft - you wouldn't want your "urgent" mobile call to cause the thing to crash would you.

Answer 3

In the U.S. you can only use them in designated areas usually. Lounges and lobbies, for example. I am not sure if it actually interferes with equipment. It may just be that hospitals don't want to deal with the issues associated with people on their phones all the time. I have heard that airplanes are the same. It doesnt interfere with an airplane but they dont want the noise from all those people talking on the phone.

Answer 4

It varies. although all hospitals i have visited have atleast one area that is safe for mobile phone use. i am from the USA and visit AU every so often for charity work. hope this answer helps

Answer 5

I believe you can. Something important might be happening and you might need to tell a family member. Just to be sure call the hospital and ask!

Answer 6

I volunteer in a hospital. Although it is considered rude and impolite, here in the US, you can use your cell phone all you want.. as long as you have service