The Government has recently advised everyone to wear a face covering when out and about, therefore we are requesting that patients please wear a face covering before entering the surgery.
https://www.gov.uk/government/news/public-advised-to-cover-faces-in-enclosed-spaces
The surgery has a legal responsibility to protect staff and patients from risks associated with COVID-19; wearing a face covering is an added precaution that may have some benefit in reducing the likelihood that a person with the infection passes it on. Evidence shows a face covering can help in reducing the spread of droplets; it stops them from leaving the mouth and nose area and reduces the size of area in which they spread. All of our clinical team wear a face mask when consulting with patients, our admin team are shielded behind perspex screens and have all been provided with the choice of wearing a face mask or face shield if they wish.
A medical grade clinical mask is not necessary, these need to be prioritised to clinical staff. Instead, for patients who are visiting healthcare sites, a face covering is sufficient and there is guidance for people to make these at home with items they may already own.
