We are aware that some patients are requesting that we provide risk assessments or letters as they are worried about the new government guidance and feel they should be exempt from wearing a face mask.
GPs are not in a position to provide these.
We recognise that 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.
Government advice on the use of face coverings can be found here:
https://www.gov.uk/guidance/coronavirus-covid-19-safer-travel-guidance-for-passengers#face-coverings . This link includes a list of reasons why someone might be exempt from wearing a face covering.
The responsibility for issuing exemptions lies with the transport provider, not the patient’s GP. Similarly, we are not able 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.
Patients needing to travel on public transport in London may wish to print-out a self-exemption card which has been approved by TfL. This can be displayed on clothing or a lanyard. It can be found here: https://tfl.gov.uk/campaign/face-coverings
