Progress on Long COVID treatments following Healthwatch reports in North Central London
Throughout the second half of 2021, Healthwatch Haringey worked with our neighbours and colleagues at Healthwatch Camden, Healthwatch Enfield, Healthwatch Barnet, and Healthwatch Islington to investigate local people’s experiences of Long COVID.
You can read the five Healthwatch report, led by Healthwatch Barnet, on our website.
We also looked at the experiences of Haringey residents in more detail and produced a separate Haringey Long COVID report
Our aim was to identify how their healthcare could be improved and we are pleased that some of the recommendations made in the reports have now been put into action by the local North Central London Integrated Care Board, so that support is available more quickly.
What to expect from Long COVID services in 2022
Patients with Long COVID will be assessed at a face-to-face appointment with their GP.
Together, the patient and GP will create a plan to manage the condition. This will include both actions for the GP and self-management actions for the patient.
Patients referred for Long COVID support will have follow up options and likely treatment explained in full. North Central London NHS has developed a single point of access for all Long Covid services, so your GP may consider referring patients here for onward care if needed.
Treatment options might include:
Help from primary care services to support the patient’s self-care, making use of the www.yourcovidrecovery.nhs.uk website.
Referral to the Single Point of Access for onward care.
Additional support
Developing Long COVID can affect a person’s mental health. The GP may make a referral to Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) which can help people to overcome depression and anxiety, and better manage their mental health.
Further information
Do you have Long COVID?
The Long COVID Support website has lots of information and resources.
Long COVID Support Groups All countries including UK support groups
Downloads
What to expect from Long COVID services in 2022
North Central London NHS have acted on the findings of the Healthwatch Long COVID reports. They have produced an action plan and included the progress they have made.
