Investigating the impact of Covid-19 on people with new or existing conditions

Healthwatch Cumbria have been investigating the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on people with new or existing health conditions in the local area. This has been done through engagement work with local support groups, the public reached through social media and one to one conversation’s with members of the community. This research project took place because of the findings from the Healthwatch Together Coronavirus Survey version 1 which took place in March/April 2020 highlighted that there was a lack of insight into the lives of those living with new or existing health conditions. Specifically, on how COVID-19 had impacted their condition in terms of ongoing treatment, appointments, and surgeries.

32 people took the time to share their views for this project.

• The majority of respondents have felt a bit worried or anxious about their medical condition(s) during the last 18 months.
• The biggest concern that made respondents anxious about their condition during the last 18 months was catching Covid-19. Other significant worries included being able to access support for their condition, and their medical condition(s) worsening.
• 69% of respondents required treatment for their pre-existing condition during the last 18 months.
• The top 3 health services used by respondents in the last 18 months (other than for their pre-existing condition) were: 

1. GP
2. Dentist
3. Hospital

• More respondents had appointments cancelled or postponed than those who did not. More respondents had appointments postponed than cancelled.
• Usually, respondents were kept informed of any changes to pre-existing or new appointments/treatments in relation to their medical condition(s) during the last 18 months.
• The most common methods of communication to receive information for respondents about their medical condition was by letter or by phone calls.
• It has been a struggle to get GP appointments during the pandemic (and most people have experienced having an appointment postponed or cancelled in the last 18 months).
• Some patients believe that GP receptionists hinder rather than facilitate the appointment booking process.
• In the future the option of a hybrid model for appointments is wanted, with the method (online, phone or face-to-face) being chosen by the patient.
• Participants reported a strong desire to return to regular check-ups for long-term conditions.
• Long waiting times and poor communication have been highlighted as big issues during the pandemic.

HW Cumbria made a number of recommendations in this report.