Having spent the last 2 weeks in a #COVID_19 follow up clinic, based in a Find and Treat van I have more learning to share.
1: There is no better way to get to know your colleagues than sharing the experience of running a clinic out of a van.

2: Many many people are still experiencing symptoms even 6-8 weeks after having COVID.
3: Ongoing symptoms include; breathlessness, fatigue, ex tol, low mood, anxiety, palpitations, cough, chest tightness, pain. Some still have CXR changes, desaturation at rest/ on exertion.

4: Many feel they could not return to work full time.
5: The psychological impact is high. Anxiety about getting COVID again, or infecting loved ones or in general about their recovery. Many are traumatised by the experience having had COVID and coping with symptoms at home.

6: Breathing pattern disorder appears prevalent post COVID. It’s hard to diagnose for certain as we still don’t understand all the mechanisms driving breathlessness in this group.

7: There is a real need for a reconditioning and education programme for people still struggling with symptoms (once investigated and medically optimised). Perhaps a virtual exercise group. The system is not currently set up to support this and the need is now.

8: The National response to acute care for COVID has been incredible. The response for the provision of rehab has also been great. There is a real risk that the provision of follow up care is forgotten as pressure increases to revive ‘Business as Usual’ services.

9: Although it’s been fun, the sooner we can find a home for this clinic the better! #sunburn #windburn #chillblains #unconventional #funnylooksfrompatients

#COVIDrehab #Physiotherapy #WeAHPs #coronavirus #respisbest
@uclh @tobyhillman @TheACPRC @Ronanastin @physio4bpd