The Western Health and Social Care Trust (Western Trust) has supported 200 people with 'long Covid' as part of the Western Trust's dedicated assessment and treatment service for people with post-Covid-19 syndrome.

Since it commenced in March, the multi-disciplinary team has supported more than 200 patients referred by either their GP or hospital respiratory or cardiac consultant.

The post-Covid service aims to support those with longer-term physical or mental health symptoms, lasting more than 12 weeks since their Covid-19 infection.

Explaining the process, a Western Trust spokeswoman said: "Following an assessment by the team, which includes respiratory nursing, physiotherapy and occupational therapy professionals, patients are offered expert advice and may be offered further appointments with these professionals, including referral to a dietitian, a speech and language therapist, and a psychologist.

"Patients may also be referred to other services as needed to support them to manage their symptoms and help them with their recovery."

Continuing, the spokeswoman said: "A personalised service focussing on respiratory rehabilitation and dysfunctional breathing is also being set up for patients with significant symptoms, post-Covid-19.

"A specialist nurse and physiotherapist will offer support with assessment, rehabilitation and self-management of symptoms."

Welcoming the new service, Donna Keenan, the Interim Director of Primary Care and Older People at the Western Trust, said: “The post-Covid-19 service will provide support for people experiencing the symptoms of Covid-19, and will assist them with their rehabilitation.

"This is a very exciting opportunity for this dedicated team, who are absolutely committed to supporting those with post-Covid-19 syndrome with their recovery.

"The team is now aiming to provide specialised support for the many patients who are reporting fatigue as a main symptom."

Donna added: "The critical care element ... will provide a clinical review and assessment of both Covid-19 and non-Covid patients who have been discharged from intensive care.

"This is a collaborate review where patients will be assessed by a critical care consultant, critical care nurse, and psychologist with a focus on their time within intensive care.

"Following review, patients will be offered onward referrals to specialist services to meet their identified needs.

"If you suspect you have post-Covid-19 syndrome, please contact your GP or hospital respiratory/cardiac consultant, who can organise a referral to the service, if appropriate."