Health and dental providers can insist upon mask wearing after July 19th, PHE confirms
Health and dental providers in England will be able to insist upon patients continuing to wear face masks after restrictions ease on July 19th.
Public Health England (PHE) has confirmed that infection control guidance for health and dental settings will remain in place after July 19th. This means that providers will be able to enforce mask-wearing among patients with the exception of those who are exempt.
Since the latest announcement, which confirmed that all remaining restrictions would ease on July 19th, health and dental providers have sought clarity from the government and health bodies to determine what the next stage will mean for doctors, dentists and other medical professionals.
In response to questions and queries from health providers, PHE has issued clear guidance, suggesting that infection control measures will remain in place.
The policy, which was drawn up as guidance across the UK, indicates that face masks should be worn in hospitals, GP and dental surgeries and other community-based health settings. The guidelines also recommend social distancing and hand hygiene protocols.
PHE has also given the green light for dentists and GPs to continue with virtual appointments and online consultations after the 19th July.
Dr Susan Hopkins, Covid-19 strategic response officer at PHE, explained that restrictions will still apply in healthcare settings after Monday July 19th, meaning that patients and staff will be required to wear a face mask and abide by social distancing guidelines.
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