Experiences of Long Covid Support
Download (PDF 1.34 MB)Summary of report content
Healthwatch Norfolk wanted to know what information, advice, and support is available to those living with Long COVID symptoms in Norfolk, as well as how aware people are of these resources. They ran a survey to which 286 people who had experienced Long COVID symptoms in the last year responded.
The research found that knowledge and information about Long COVID and the associated symptoms is lacking. Respondents felt that even some health care professionals are not fully aware or understanding of the range of symptoms. Respondents shared that this made them concerned that they would not be taken seriously and be dismissed by GPs.
Updating and improving resources for both public and professionals would help in diagnosis of Long COVID and improve patient confidence in services, knowing that they would be getting the correct support for their symptoms. There is a lack of awareness for the resources that are currently available, by both public and health care professionals. Many respondents told were not aware of resources that Healthwatch Norfolk had highlighted in their survey including services that professionals should be signposting/referring patients to. More awareness and signposting material, in multiple accessible formats, for what is available would be beneficial in helping patients find the most suitable support for them.
Finally, support needs to reflect the range of symptoms that are associated with Long COVID. Consulting with patients about what they find useful and what they need would help to improve the available resources and identify gaps in support. One example of what patients would like is access to peer support so they can share their experiences and advice.
The report contains three recommendations.