COVID-19 face mask statement

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease caused by a newly discovered coronavirus. Patients and visitors are required to wear a face mask while attending our medical clinic, where practical.

This may change on a daily basis, depending on NSW government general advice on wearing face masks.

Compliance.

To reduce the risk of COVID-19 infection, all patients and visitors over the age of 12 must wear a face mask while in the clinic and follow accepted NSW government general advice on wearing face masks.

Patients that do not have a face mask available will be provided with a free, single-use face mask to wear.

Patients who choose not to wear a face mask within our medical clinic must notify reception staff immediately. In the interest of safety, patient treatment may be delayed, declined or rescheduled, at the discretion of the dermatologist or clinic nurse.

Hygiene.

When a patient handles or wears a mask, they should:

• Wash or sanitise hands before putting on the mask;
• Make sure it covers the nose and mouth and fits snugly under the chin, over the bridge of the nose and against the sides of the face;
• Not touch the front of the mask while wearing it or when removing it. Those who do touch the mask should wash or sanitise their hands immediately. Do not allow the mask to hang around the neck;
• Wash or sanitise their hands after removing the mask.

Exceptions. 

You are not required to wear a mask if you have a physical illness, mental health condition, or disability, that makes wearing a mask unsuitable.

If you cannot wear a face mask because of a disability, physical illness, or mental health condition, you must carry either:

• a medical certificate or letter signed by a registered health practitioner (such as a doctor) or a registered NDIS provider, or,
• a statutory declaration.

A statutory declaration will require you to identify your disability, physical illness, or mental health condition, and declare:

• you have the physical illness, mental health condition, or disability, and,
• the physical illness, mental health condition, or disability makes wearing a fitted face covering unsuitable.

Patients with chronic respiratory conditions should seek medical advice before using a mask.

The wearing of face masks is optional for children aged 12 or younger.

Our medical practice may vary policies from time to time and without notice. A patient may request information about policy changes or view them on our website. gsdermatology.com.au/policy