Pauline Tully
Question:36. Deputy Pauline Tully asked the Minister for Health to detail the specific health supports that are available to people with long-Covid; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [19867/24]
View answerThursday, 2 May 2024
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Written answers
As the Deputy will be aware, the HSE interim Model of Care for Long COVID is being implemented, building on existing service provision, in addition to establishing new services across GP, community services and acute hospitals, to ensure a national service is in place for all who need it. In 2023 €6.6m was allocated for continued development of these services.
The model of care recommended the establishment of six Long COVID clinics across the country representing each hospital group, with appropriate staffing support. All Long COVID clinics are now established and receiving patients. Long COVID clinics are established in Beaumont University Hospital, St James’s University Hospital, St Vincent’s University Hospital, Cork University Hospital, University Hospital Limerick and Galway University Hospital.
Clinics operating under the Model of Care are supported by interdisciplinary teams with range of expertise including clinicians in the areas of infectious disease, respiratory medicine, psychiatry, cardiology and neurology. Allied health professionals, including occupational therapy, physiotherapy and clinical psychologists also form part of these interdisciplinary teams. The HSE continue to develop the service and are actively recruiting clinicians into these teams.
There is currently a neurology clinic at St James’ Hospital that receives referrals for patients with neurological symptoms that may be attributed to Long COIVD. This clinic accepts referrals from Long COVID clinics around the country.
Additionally, to further inform the continued development of post-acute and Long COVID services, the HSE have launched a Follow-up After Disease Acquisition (FADA) Survey to help increase understanding around how people are recovering from prolonged symptoms of COVID-19. Preliminary results of the survey are expected to be available later this year.