Face masks are now mandatory in all healthcare settings within B.C.
This means amid the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic everyone, from visitors to patients and staff, must don a “medical mask” – one that meets international standards for filtration and fluid resistance.
The Ministry of Health issued the directive Wednesday to be implemented in hospitals, medical clinics, long-term care homes, and other healthcare settings.
"This policy protects patients, clients, clinicians, health care workers, non-clinical staff and the public by outlining provincial expectations for the use of face masks in all health care facilities, programs, and services,” reads the policy.
This comes as six new COVID-19 outbreaks in healthcare facilities were announced Friday.
Few exceptions to mask mandate
If a patient or visitor does not have a mask, the policy said facilities must provide one.
Exceptions include patients who cannot wear a mask due to a preexisting medical condition and those who are eating or drinking in cafeterias or other retail settings.
Previously, mask requirements for health-care facilities varied across the province.
Now, patients who have been admitted to hospitals or other facilities are expected to wear masks when outside of their rooms.
This includes people attending community physician’s offices and outpatient clinics.
