Further to the easing of COVID-19 restrictions on the 19th July 2021, those individuals (e.g. patients, staff and visitors) interacting with NHS / commercial healthcare premises must continue to wear face coverings throughout the duration of their stay. This rule will be applicable to hospitals, GP practices, dental practices, optometrists and pharmacies and will help to ensure patients and staff are protected as well as they can be.

This message was reinforced today by England’s Chief Nurse, Dr Ruth May. In the announcement, Dr May underscored the need for everyone accessing or visiting healthcare settings to continue to wear a face covering and follow social distancing rules.

Ms May stated that: “Face coverings and social distancing measures will remain in place across healthcare settings so that the most vulnerable people can continue to safely attend hospital, their GP surgery, pharmacy or any other healthcare settings for advice, care and treatment. And it is important for the public to continue to play their part when visiting NHS and care settings to help protect our staff and patients, particularly those who may be more vulnerable to infections. As restrictions are lifted in many places on Monday everyone has a part to play in helping to control COVID-19 by getting vaccinated and acting responsibly. It is vital that in healthcare settings, we do all we can to reduce the risk of infection for those working in our services and those who need our care.”

Here at Pharmascholar.co.uk, we believe that this is a sensible approach and indeed vital in order to protect the health and well-being of others during these uncertain and fluid times. We are in full support of Dr May and the NHS and show our support here with this Blog entry.