Claire Dawson
During the coronavirus pandemic, many flower businesses have continued to deliver to hospitals, though some facilities have not allowed deliveries. Flower businesses have implemented new measures to ensure the safety of their personnel, clients, and properties. These measures include wearing masks, using hand sanitizers, and providing contactless deliveries.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Are hospitals allowing flower deliveries during coronavirus? | Yes, hospitals are allowing flower deliveries during the coronavirus pandemic, but with some changes to the delivery procedure. |
| Flower delivery precautions | Delivery drivers wear masks, maintain social distancing, and may have their temperature taken. Deliveries are often contactless, with flowers left at the door or handed to a hospital employee outside. |
| Impact on flower-related businesses | Flower businesses experienced fluctuations in sales, with a boost during occasions like Mother's Day and challenges due to supply chain issues and rose shortages. |
| Expert opinions on floral deliveries | Experts suggest that the risk of infection from flower deliveries is low, similar to other types of deliveries, but caution should be exercised. Contactless delivery is recommended. |
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What You'll Learn
Hospitals accepting flower deliveries during the pandemic
During the pandemic, many hospitals continued to accept flower deliveries, though with some changes to their procedures. For example, Suncoast Florist deliveries to hospitals are now accepted by a hospital employee outside, rather than the driver going inside.
Some hospitals and medical facilities did not allow flower deliveries during the pandemic. However, many flower businesses continued to operate, with florists reporting that Mother's Day was a particularly busy period.
Florists implemented new safety measures to continue operating during the pandemic. For example, drivers for Suncoast Florist wear masks and maintain social distancing when delivering flowers. Naples Floral Design reconfigured their retail space to separate employees and added tables outside for customers to pick up orders without coming inside. Flowers and Greens in the Philippines requires staff to wear masks, face shields, and gloves, and to disinfect their delivery vans daily.
Some people expressed concern about the safety of flower deliveries during the pandemic, especially to older or immunocompromised mothers. However, experts noted that the risk of infection from flower deliveries was low, similar to that of other types of deliveries, and could be mitigated by opting for contactless delivery.
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Precautions for flower deliveries to hospitals
Sending flowers to a hospitalised loved one is a thoughtful way to show your support and boost their mood. However, precautions must be taken to ensure the safety of patients, hospital staff, and delivery personnel. Here are some guidelines for safe flower deliveries to hospitals:
Research Hospital Policies
Before placing a flower delivery order, it is essential to research the hospital's policies on flower deliveries. Each hospital has its own set of rules, and certain areas, such as the Intensive Care Unit, may not accept floral deliveries due to possible plant or pollen allergies. Calling the hospital ahead of time can ensure that your delivery complies with their regulations.
Provide Accurate Information
When placing an order, provide the delivery service with the patient's full name, hospital name, and room number. If the patient is registered as non-disclosure or no-information, the hospital may refuse the delivery if you cannot provide the room number. Knowing the room number beforehand ensures a seamless delivery to the patient's room.
Opt for Contactless Delivery
To minimise contact and potential exposure, request contactless delivery if possible. Many florists are adopting this method, leaving the flowers at the hospital entrance or reception area for a hospital staff member to retrieve. This reduces interaction with delivery personnel and aligns with social distancing guidelines.
Include a Vase or Alternative Arrangements
Consider including a vase with your flower delivery to address safety concerns related to vase water. Vase water can harbour bacteria and pose a risk to electrical equipment. Alternatively, opt for plants or arrangements that do not require water, such as bamboo or mylar balloons, which are allowed in hospitals.
Practice Safe Handling
If you are delivering flowers in person, ensure you follow safety protocols. Wear a mask and maintain a safe distance from others, as practised by florists during the pandemic. These measures help protect both you and the hospital community.
By following these precautions, you can safely deliver flowers to hospitals, bringing joy to your loved ones while respecting the hospital's environment and policies.
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Florists' experiences delivering to hospitals
The COVID-19 pandemic has had a mixed impact on the flower business. While some florists experienced a boost in sales as people chose to decorate their homes or send flowers to their loved ones, others faced fluctuations in sales and supply chain issues. Some florists even had to temporarily close their shops due to low demand and employee health concerns.
Florists have had to adapt to new delivery procedures and safety guidelines to continue operating during the pandemic. For instance, Suncoast Florist drivers wear masks and practice contactless delivery, leaving arrangements at the door of houses and hospitals. They also provide floral arrangements for funeral homes, as many families wanted flowers for private viewings despite not being able to hold funeral services.
Some hospitals have continued to accept floral deliveries during the pandemic. However, the delivery process has changed. Instead of florists going inside, a hospital employee comes out to accept the arrangement. Some hospitals may also take the driver's temperature before accepting the delivery.
Florists have also offered to bring special items to people in hospitals or nursing homes, helping families stay connected during challenging times. For example, the owner of Posies Flower Truck in Tampa, Stephanie Newton, delivered more than 600 bouquets during the stay-at-home orders. Similarly, Michael Longo, owner of Naples Floral Design, offered to bring special items to people in hospitals or nursing homes.
Overall, the floral industry has played a role in improving public mental health during the pandemic. Research shows that the presence of flowers can reduce depression and encourage connection with loved ones, providing a safe and joyful way for people to express their emotions and stay connected during social isolation.
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Customer perspectives on hospital flower deliveries
During the pandemic, many people were separated from their loved ones in hospitals, nursing homes, and other facilities. Some customers chose to send flower arrangements to express their love and connect with those they couldn't see. For instance, florists such as Suncoast Florist and Posies Flower Truck experienced an increase in deliveries during this period. Customers also sent flowers to commemorate special occasions and holidays like Mother's Day, which they couldn't celebrate together.
However, some customers expressed concerns about the safety and wisdom of flower deliveries to hospitals during the pandemic. Experts noted that while the risk of contracting infection from flower deliveries was low, caution was still necessary. Customers who were already avoiding other types of deliveries, such as food and non-essential packages, were likely to skip flower deliveries as well. Additionally, there was a perception that flower deliveries to hospitals might not be successful due to health and safety restrictions, patient discharges, and ward changes.
Customers also faced challenges due to changing delivery procedures, supply chain issues, and sales fluctuations in the floral industry. Some hospitals implemented new precautions, such as accepting deliveries at the door or taking delivery drivers' temperatures. These factors influenced customers' decisions and experiences regarding flower deliveries to hospitals.
Overall, customer perspectives on hospital flower deliveries during the coronavirus pandemic varied. Some customers appreciated the opportunity to express their sentiments through flowers, while others prioritized alternative gifts or safety considerations. The unique circumstances of the pandemic, including physical distancing and restricted visits, also played a role in shaping customers' perspectives and decisions regarding this topic.
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Alternatives to flower deliveries for hospital patients
During the pandemic, many hospitals continued to accept flower deliveries, albeit with some changes to delivery procedures. However, some hospitals may have restrictions on flowers or live plants due to allergies or hygiene concerns, particularly in intensive care units. If you are considering sending flowers to a hospital patient, it is best to check with the hospital first.
If you are looking for alternatives to flower deliveries for a hospital patient, here are some thoughtful options:
- Balloons: Mylar balloons are allowed in hospitals and can be a great addition to a bedside table or a cheerful greeting from a distance.
- Gift baskets: Consider sending a gift basket filled with snacks, personal care items, or other comfort items. This can be a practical and enjoyable way to show your support.
- Stuffed animals: A small stuffed animal can be a comforting companion for a patient during their hospital stay.
- Cards and letters: Sending a heartfelt card or letter is a simple yet meaningful way to express your well wishes and let the patient know you are thinking of them.
- Gift cards: A gift card to a favourite store or restaurant can be a thoughtful way to offer a future treat or experience to look forward to.
- Donations: Consider making a donation to a cause or charity that is important to the patient. This can be a meaningful way to show your support and contribute to a greater cause.
Remember, when choosing an alternative to flower deliveries, it is essential to consider the patient's interests, hobbies, and any hospital restrictions. By choosing a thoughtful gift, you can brighten their hospital stay and show your support.
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Frequently asked questions
It depends on the hospital. Some hospitals are still accepting flower deliveries, but others are not.
Florists are taking precautions such as wearing masks, using hand sanitiser and disinfecting items they touch. Some hospitals now require a hospital employee to come out and accept the delivery, rather than allowing the delivery driver to enter the hospital.
Your level of comfort with a flower delivery may depend on how you feel about other types of deliveries. Some experts say that sending flowers has no more risk than sending gifts from an online retailer, but if you are avoiding deliveries, you may want to skip flower deliveries too.
