Long COVID support services under review by NHS
Hub-based services were established in 2020 for those suffering from prolonged effects of COVID-19, accessible via GPs.
However, the number of individuals using these hubs has drastically decreased over the past year.
This has prompted the NHS to cease hub arrangements and explore alternative ways to provide care.
Dr Fiona Lemmens, a local GP and deputy medical director at NHS Cheshire and Merseyside, said: "For most people, COVID-19 symptoms will last a few days or weeks, but we know that some will experience them for longer than this, and might need additional support.
"Long COVID hubs were set up early on in the pandemic, and it’s right that we review this care, to make sure that we’re supporting people in the most appropriate way, and using NHS resources as effectively as possible.
"Long COVID covers a range of different symptoms, and one of the things we need to explore is whether there are opportunities to integrate this care with existing services for people with similar conditions."
Dr Lemmens further emphasised the importance of public engagement in this review process.
She said: "To help us do this review, we’re engaging with patients and the public to understand more about people’s experiences, and the support they require.
"We’ll use this feedback to help develop plans for how we might arrange services in the future.
"It’s important to stress that anyone who needs help with their long COVID symptoms – whether on an ongoing basis or as a new patient – will continue to be able to access care."
The public can learn more and share their views by filling out a questionnaire on the NHS Cheshire and Merseyside website.
The deadline for the questionnaire is March 16, 2025.
Help is available for those needing assistance in completing the questionnaire, preferring a paper copy, or requiring information in another language or format.
Local community groups supporting individuals with long COVID are also encouraged to participate in the engagement process.
Everyone currently receiving care from a long COVID hub will receive direct information about next steps.
Those needing continuous support will be referred to alternative health services based on their specific needs, as will new patients reporting long COVID symptoms to their GP.
