Authors
Shajahan P Sulaimana, Kavitha Ravib, Joju Pomsonc
a Department of Pulmonary Medicine, Government TD Medical College, Alappuzha;
b Department of Pathology, Government Medical College, Thiruvananthapuram;
c Editor, Kerala Medical Journal
Abstract
Background: The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has shifted focus from acute treatment to managing its lingering health impacts, commonly known as “long COVID.” Millions of individuals experience persistent symptoms, necessitating specialized healthcare interventions.
Purpose: This article highlights the critical role of post-COVID clinics in providing comprehensive, multidisciplinary care for patients suffering from long-term sequelae of COVID-19. It emphasizes the need for tailored support given the diverse and often prolonged nature of symptoms.
Key Points: Post-COVID clinics serve as essential centers, integrating experts from various medical fields such as pulmonology, cardiology, neurology, and psychiatry, along with physical therapy. This collaborative model ensures holistic patient management. Beyond direct medical care, these clinics are vital for collecting data, advancing the understanding of long COVID, and adapting treatment protocols as new insights emerge. Common persistent symptoms include fatigue, shortness of breath, cognitive issues, and mental health challenges like anxiety and depression. Respiratory complications, including interstitial lung disease and pulmonary thromboembolism, are also significant concerns, particularly in patients with severe acute infections or comorbidities.
Conclusion: Establishing and adequately funding post-COVID clinics is a proactive public health imperative. These specialized centers are indispensable for mitigating long-term health burdens, supporting affected individuals, and strengthening healthcare resilience for future challenges.