The NHS in Kirklees has confirmed that patients attending GP surgeries must continue to wear a face mask and follow social distancing rules after 19 July, unless they are exempt.
NHS visitor guidance will also stay in place across all other health services including hospitals, dental practices, optometrists and pharmacies to ensure patients and staff are protected.
Staff, patients and visitors will be expected to continue to follow social distancing rules when visiting health services as well as using face coverings and any other appropriate personal protection equipment.
The measures will ensure that the most vulnerable people can continue to safely attend their GP surgery and other healthcare settings for advice, care and treatment.
Dr Khalid Naeem, Chair of NHS Kirklees CCG and a local GP said, ‘I appreciate that restrictions are easing in many areas of our life. But we must do all we can to reduce the risk of infection for those working in our health services and those who need our care. This will help to ensure the NHS has the capacity to treat everyone who needs it.’
The decision follows guidance issued by NHS England and Improvement (on 15 July) that existing infection prevention and control and hospital visiting guidance must remain in place for all staff and visitors.