People will have to follow a new set of rules when they go to see their GP in Leeds.
Leeds Clinical Commissioning Group has announced people must wear a face coverings when they visit NHS buildings in the city, including GP practices, community health centres and hospitals.
Only children under three, people with breathing difficulties, people with painful facial injuries and anyone who experiences "severe discomfort or distress" while wearing a face mask is exempt from this new rule.
All patients are also being told to arrive on time for appointments (those who are too early will be sent home), attend appointments alone, wash their hands regularly and keep their distance from other people when they are not in their appointment.
However, face-to-face appointments are still only being offered to people who need urgent treatment. Many appointments are being conducted over the phone or via video.
Dr Simon Stockill, medical director for NHS Leeds CCG, said: “As a city we recognise the sacrifices people have made in response to Covid-19, as we slowly ease our way out from lockdown we want people to stay alert.
"That means we’re now asking all patients to wear a face covering when they come in for any health appointments in NHS buildings.
"Please also remember that face-to-face appointments will be offered where we need to see you physically or for any surgery, you must continue to call your GP practice or any other service and not walk-in without an appointment.
“Your local NHS is working hard to get services up and running again, however it’s important that this is done in a safely managed way.
"This means that priority will be given based on clinical urgency.
"If you were booked in for an operation, your local NHS will contact you in due course to explain the next steps, including any further delays you may experience.
"If, while waiting for your operation, you feel unwell please call your GP practice in the first instance or NHS 111.”
