A new support service launched this week will benefit people recovering from Covid-19 across the Bradford district and Craven.
The NHS service developed, by a range of health and care professionals through the Act as One health and care partnership, will be available to those who continue to display ‘post Covid’ symptoms 12 weeks after they have should have recovered from the virus. People with post Covid may experience breathlessness, fatigue, chest pains linked to possible damage to the lungs and heart and impact on the brain (cognitive impairment) as well as psychological symptoms.
People experiencing symptoms of post Covid will be referred to the new service by their GP or hospital consultant. Support includes advice on self management, access to psychological services through to therapy support. The service is based on nationally developed guidelines from NHS England and NHS Improvement based on guidance issued by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).
Dr Katherine Hickman, GP and Respiratory Lead for NHS Bradford District and Craven Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG) said: “We have been working across a range of clinical disciplines to fully understand the support people need as they recover from COVID-19. For some people – irrespective of age – the medium to long-term impact of COVID-19 on both their physical and mental health can be quite significant. This new support service will help health and care professionals and our patients to get access to the most appropriate service so we can work together to aid their recovery.”
Dr Paul Whitaker, Consultant in Respiratory Medicine at Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, added: “Bradford District and Craven were one of the first areas to develop specialist clinics to support patients and help us understand how COVID-19 affects people’s physical and psychological wellbeing. We have used that learning, working alongside our primary and community care colleagues, to develop a holistic support package for people recovering from COVID-19. “
Karen Dawber, Senior Responsible Owner for the Act as One Respiratory Programme and Chief Nurse at Bradford Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, commented: “Our post Covid service will be available for people who meet the eligibility criteria. We have set up a straightforward assessment process using a standardised tool that people can access through an app. For those who are unable to, or lack confidence in using smartphones or tablets we will offer a telephone screening service. At this point one of our pathway co-ordinators will contact the patient to fully understand the patient’s story, symptoms and understand their main goals. We want services to be as accessible as possible and we will tailor the offer to meet individuals requirements. This is another great example of how we are working together, under Act as One, as an integrated health and care system across Bradford District and Craven. ”
Anyone referred to the service will receive six weekly follow-ups to see how they are progressing in their recovery which will include reviewing clinical and patient experience. A patient information leaflet will be provided offering advice on how people can continue to take steps to improve their health, including physical and mental wellbeing tips and links to relevant support.
The post Covid pathway has been developed by colleagues across Bradford district and Craven under the Act as One Respiratory Programme.
Greens win Bradford Council seats in Ilkley and Craven
Five Ilkley artists prepare to open their studios
Labour wins North Yorkshire Mayoral election by nearly 15,000 votes
Experience 'Zip The Cow' for Manorlands Hospice!
Kex Gill on course to open by end of June, say council
No Northern train services next Thursday due to strike
Developer's bid to change planning condition on Silsden housing estate raises concerns
Local young dancers chosen for production of Swan Lake
South Craven plans to join East Lancashire schools in new Trust
Council increases library fines for first time in a decade
A-list celebrities support Brownies Bookmark Project
Heat Pump & Solar Panel Open Day in Ilkley on Saturday
Armed Forces Brew Up to take place at Airedale Hospital
Friends of Ilkley Moor announces AGM
Lidl seeks new stores in Ilkley, Skipton and Keighley
Ilkley Civic Society raises concerns over proposals for Changing Places Toilet
Countdown to “spectacular” Mardi-Gras themed Ilkley Carnival begins!
Craven Museum shortlisted for major national award
Tributes paid to 14 year old killed at weekend in Keighley crash
14 year old boy dies in Keighley road crash
