'Number' of hospital patients 'point blank' refusing to wear masks
Some patients and visitors at a Black Country hospital have refused to wear masks, leading to a warning from staff.
Bosses at Russells Hall in Dudley said the majority of the public had complied with the rules on wearing masks but that a number had "point-blank refused".
Those who chose not to comply with the rules were spoken to about the importance of doing so, Mary Sexton, chief nurse at the Dudley Group NHS Trust, which runs the hospital, told a board meeting.
She also warned some were treating a hospital trip as a "day out" and bringing several members of the family along with them.
People are required to wear masks in indoor settings including shops and pubs, but there is perhaps an even higher moral expectation attached to wearing one in a hospital due to the vulnerability of people who they could potentially come into contact with.
Ms Sexton said: "The majority are complying and are working with us. We have had a number of individuals who have point-blank refused and we have had to speak to them at length.
"We do have measures in place for people who cannot wear a mask. They are being supported when they try to access trust services.
"We have had to have conversations with outpatients. It can be a habit that it's a bit of a day out for them and come with several members of the family and young children.=
"We have had to have conversations about restricting numbers as much as possible to maintain social distancing."
Ms Sexton said the hospital had received complaints about partners or family members not being able to attend appointments, particularly for baby scans.
She added: "Overall most people have been pretty understanding and complaint with the measures.
"But like anything with members of the public you always get a small group who, for whatever reason, don't wish to comply."
