Face mask rules: you must wear a mask in East Sussex healthcare facilities

The face mask requirement continues in healthcare facilities despite the change in rules on Monday (July 19).

the NHS trust for East Sussex covers Bexhill Hospital, Conquest Hospital in Hastings, Eastbourne District General Hospital and Rye, Winchelsea and District Memorial Hospital.

Prime Minister Boris Johnson has announced that it will no longer be mandatory to wear a mask from Monday, but government guidelines say he “expects and recommends” people to continue wearing them in crowded areas .

Despite this, Public Health England’s infection prevention control guidelines and hospital visitation guidelines are expected to remain in place for all staff and visitors, meaning the NHS visitor guidelines will remain in place. in all health services, including hospitals, general practitioners’ offices, dental offices, optometrists and pharmacies. to ensure the protection of patients and staff.

Staff, patients and visitors should also continue to follow social distancing rules when visiting any healthcare facility, as well as using face covers / face masks and other personal protective equipment.

Head nurse for England Ruth May said: “Face coverings and social distancing measures will remain in place at all health facilities so that the most vulnerable can continue to reach out safely. safety in the hospital, their doctor’s office, their pharmacy or any other health establishment for advice, care and treatment.

“And it’s important that the public continue to play their role when visiting the NHS and healthcare facilities to help protect our staff and patients, especially those who may be more vulnerable to infections.

“As restrictions are lifted in many places on Monday, everyone has a role to play in helping control Covid by getting vaccinated and acting responsibly.

“It is essential that in healthcare facilities we do everything possible to reduce the risk of infection for those who work in our departments and those who need our care. ”

Health Minister Jo Churchill said: “Face coverings have played an important role in healthcare facilities, helping to protect vulnerable patients, staff and visitors by limiting the spread of this deadly disease and these diseases. guidelines remain in place.

“We expect patients, visitors and NHS staff to continue to use face coverings and maintain social distancing in all health facilities as we cautiously lift restrictions on Monday.

“I urge everyone to play their part and think about those who are more vulnerable than you when visiting your local hospital or doctor’s office.”

Professor Helen Stokes-Lampard, president of the Academy of Medical Royal Colleges, agrees with the decision.

She said: “It is only fair that basic infection prevention and control measures remain in place in healthcare facilities. Simple steps such as wearing a face mask and maintaining a safe distance from others are a minor inconvenience but could have a profound positive impact when it comes to protecting the most vulnerable and I strongly support the head nurse with that clear reminder. “