The NWL post-Covid triage service will review a referral and if accepted will refer the patient on to either the:

• local Post-COVID-19 syndrome assessment clinic (PCAC) if further medical investigations are required, who will assess the patient and refer the patient onwards for treatment

• local Post-COVID-19 syndrome multidisciplinary therapy team who will assess the patient and deliver/coordinate a programme of physical and/or psychological therapy.

Long COVID can have a significant impact on an individual’s emotional and psychological wellbeing. It can impact the way an individual sees themselves and their life, which can lead to low mood and anxiety. Psychologists form part of the community MDTs and post-COVID assessment clinics. Psychologists will consult on referrals made into the pathway, offering triages and assessments to patients if required. Psychologists can also offer consultation to other professionals working with patients with long COVID.

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusions

• aged 18+

• registered to a GP practice within NWL

believed to have post-COVID syndrome who:

• require further clinical assessment and investigations related to suspected post-COVID syndrome

AND / OR

• who need a programme of physical and/or psychological therapy

Exclusions

The Triage Team will reject referrals where:

• symptoms are acute or life-threatening

• symptoms where alternative causes have not been ruled out

• a standard face-to-face assessment – set out in this form as per London guidance - has not been completed by the Primary Care referrer

• symptoms seen less than 4 weeks after COVID infection

• primary need is treatment of chronic conditions that existed prior to COVID infection (e.g. patients with a diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome/ME or fibromyalgia predating COVID infection) - in this case, please refer to the appropriate specialty

• a single need requires investigation or treatment - in this case, please refer to the appropriate specialty

• symptoms result from COVID-19 vaccination

How to Refer