We are receiving queries around the “wearing of masks” in primary care. This is due to the announcement from the Health Secretary last week stating that it will be compulsory to wear a face mask when visiting a hospital from June 15th, new rules will apply to visitors, patients and staff.
In primary care settings there are two relevant pieces of advice that should be followed.
- The advice published by Public Health England on the use of Personal Protective Equipment in primary care
- Further Government advice on working safely in non-hospital settings
We would further add that as nothing as yet is mandated for practices, it would be advisable to continue to utilise your common sense, undertake risk assessments and take all appropriate precautions to cover yourselves, patients and any other staff members.