Background and Goal: “Long COVID” is the continuation or development of new symptoms three months after initial SARS-CoV-2 infection. For many patients with long COVID, primary care is the first point of interaction with the health care system. This study aimed to examine the expectations and experiences of primary care patients seeking treatment for long COVID.
Study Approach: Researchers conducted 20 semistructured interviews between 2022 and 2023 with primary care patients from a long COVID triage clinic at the University of Utah. Using a phenomenological framework, the interviews focused on understanding and describing participants’ lived experiences and perceptions through open-ended, flexible questioning. The interviews were analyzed using inductive qualitative content analysis, a method that identifies themes and patterns in the data.
Main Results:
Why It Matters: The study results highlight a disconnect between the expectations and experiences of long-COVID patients within the U.S. health care system. Despite facing numerous barriers and frustrations, patients show a desire to collaborate with clinicians to improve treatment outcomes.
Challenges in Receiving Care for Long COVID: A Qualitative Interview Study Among Primary Care Patients About Expectations and Experiences
Elena Gardner, MPH, et al
University of Utah Family and Preventive Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah
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The Annals of Family Medicine
Long COVID Patients Seek Better Collaboration With Health Care Professionals
23-Sep-2024