"Face Covering Exemption"

I attended Johnson Hospital Spalding recently for a test. Upon entry at reception I was asked to change my face covering to a medical grade face covering. I explained that I was asthmatic and that I could just about manage with the face covering I was wearing, as it was of a thinner grade material. My asthma had really been playing up that morning. The receptionist was understanding and asked if I could try. I did, but was really struggling, so reverted to my own mask.

Upon entering reception within the testing department, this was a different story. The receptionist shouted at me to wear a medical grade mask. I then explained my medical condition, they continued to raise their voice and then threatened me with refused entry to my appointment. This was extremely upsetting and caused me a great deal of stress. Through fear of not being seen, I put on the medical grade mask and entered the room. I was gasping for breath, the clinician noticed this and commented that I was struggling to breath, yet I was still not allowed to remove the mask.

I feel disgusted about the way I was treated. Government guidelines state that individuals with medical conditions are exempt masks. I have come away feeling extremely ill and anxious about any future appointments.