Reinstated mask mandate and COVID-19 vaccination update: What doctors need to know

With respiratory illnesses such as COVID-19 and the flu expected to increase over the next few months, the Ministry of Health has reinstated a mask mandate in certain health care settings and provided information on COVID-19 vaccinations, including how to administer them. Here’s what doctors need to know. 

Mask use requirements

• Masks are not mandated in private medical clinics, offices, or practices but with the anticipated increase in flu and respiratory illness, physicians are urged to follow Provincial Health Officer (PHO) guidance and recommendations – including wearing a mask in patient-care areas as clinically indicated – to prevent infection and protect themselves, their patients, and their staff.

• Health care workers, volunteers, contractors, and visitors in hospitals and health authority owned/operated/contracted medical facilities, including long-term care and seniors assisted living centers and provincial mental health facilities, are required to wear a mask in patient-care areas such as waiting rooms and examination rooms.

• Patients in hospitals will not be required to wear masks, unless clinically indicated.

• Long-term care visitors will be required to wear a mask when they are in common areas and when participating in indoor events, gatherings, and activities in communal areas.

PPE and critical supplies

• Although doctors’ offices are not covered under the mask mandate, the need for masks and other infection control items will increase in the coming months. 

• Family doctors and specialists working in medical offices or clinics can continue to order PPE and critical supplies at no cost through the Health PPE Portal. If you have any issues with PPE orders or questions, please contact View Email Addresshealth.ppe@gov.bc.ca. 

• Physicians employed by a health authority or who work at a health authority site will continue to receive PPE and critical supplies through your existing ordering process.

Immunization requirements

• Health care workers are still required to have their COVID-19 immunization in accordance with Provincial Health Officer (PHO) Orders and employer policies.

• Vaccination will also continue to be mandatory for all new health-care workers, including nurses. Health care workers who were not previously vaccinated will be considered fully vaccinated if they receive the newly updated COVID-19 shot.

• Unvaccinated health-care workers will continue to be prohibited from working in hospitals and long-term care homes.

• Proof of vaccination is not required for patients, residents, clients, or visitors.

COVID-19 vaccinations in doctors’ offices

• For the first time, doctors can offer COVID-19 vaccines to their patients, along with influenza immunizations.

• Please directly contact the Medical Health Officer in your health authority for more information on how to order both vaccines and/or to get set up with Public Health as a vaccine provider.

Doctors of BC encourages all British Columbians to take appropriate steps to protect themselves and those around them. We will update this page regularly as new information becomes available. 

If you have any questions, please contact View Email Addresscovid19@doctorsofbc.ca.