11/12/2025
FACE MASKS
Updated guidance for GP surgeries in the UK requires that patients with respiratory symptoms (such as a cough or high temperature) should wear a face mask when attending an appointment in person.
Advice for Patients
• Symptomatic Patients: If you have symptoms of a respiratory infection (such as flu, COVID-19, or a cold), you should contact the GP surgery ahead of your appointment to inform them of your symptoms. They will advise you to wear a mask during your visit to protect vulnerable patients and staff. You might be asked to wait in your car until your appointment time, or be asked to wait inside the health centre in a reserved area.
• Exemptions: If you have a valid health or disability reason for not wearing a face mask, you are not routinely required to provide written evidence. The GP surgery should not refuse you care but may offer an alternative consultation type or we might make other arrangements to ensure safety.
• Current Flu Surge: The UK Health Security Agency is currently urging the public to consider wearing face masks in crowded or enclosed spaces due to a significant increase in flu cases.
In summary, it is advisable to wear a face mask when visiting a GP surgery and to follow the instructions provided by the practice staff and signage to help keep the clinical environment safe for everyone. We have masks available next to the check-in screen.
