Guidance Note for Patients Requesting Exemption Letters Regarding Face Masks

We are aware that some patients might be understandably anxious about the government’s recent announcements around the use of face masks in various public settings. GPs are unfortunately not in a position to provide individual risk assessments or letters for patients who feel that they should be exempt from wearing a face mask. (BMA)

• https://www.bma.org.uk/advice-and-support/covid-19/gp-practices/covid-19-toolkit-for-gps-and-gp-practices/reducing-covid-19-transmission-and-ppe

Therefore GPs will not issue exemption letters regarding face masks.

In England, you must by law wear a face covering on public transport and in shops and supermarkets as of 24 July 2020. The Government Guidance on exemptions suggests there is no requirement for evidence for exemption therefore it is sufficient for an individual to self-declare this. If you are asked to provide an exemption certificate by the airline or your travel agency, the responsibility for issuing exemptions lays with the transport provider and not the GP Practice.

Similarly, practices are under no obligation to provide letters of support for anyone who does not fall under the list of exemptions but considers them to have another reason to be exempted. Please refer to the information on the following links on the Government advice on face masks in public spaces and when travelling on transport:

• https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/face-coverings-when-to-wear-one-and-how-to-make-your-own/face-coverings-when-to-wear-one-and-how-to-make-your-own

• https://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-safer-travel-guidance-for-passengers#face-coverings

Yours sincerely

 Doctors at New Street and Netherton Group Practice