Advancing Equitable, Whole-person Care for Long COVID: Lessons Learned from Year 1 of the AHRQ Long COVID Care Network-Session Recording

Video Transcription

Video Summary

The video discusses initiatives to advance equitable whole-person care for individuals suffering from long COVID, stemming from the first year of the AHRQ grant. The focus is on creating a comprehensive, coordinated network across the U.S. to ensure person-centered care is available, particularly for underserved and rural populations. The grant initially supported nine then later twelve cooperative projects around the country. The purpose is to address the vast impact of long COVID, affecting approximately 10% of the population, with a significant focus on reaching those more severely affected by the pandemic but often lacking access to quality healthcare.<br /><br />Throughout the presentations, various speakers representing institutions like UT Health San Antonio and the University of Washington shared their accomplishments and challenges. Key activities include expanding multidisciplinary care networks, engaging community education, and tele-mentoring primary care providers. Emphasis is on reaching priority populations and conducting community-based events to disseminate information effectively, aiming to bridge gaps in existing healthcare systems.<br /><br />Challenges highlighted include varying levels of awareness and acceptance of long COVID among healthcare providers and patients, necessitating tailored education and outreach strategies. There is a stress on the need for continued and augmented funding to effectively tackle these challenges and improve access and quality of care for the millions affected by long COVID. The symposium concludes with an acknowledgment of the importance of patient advocacy, community engagement, and support for primary care providers to advance these efforts.

Keywords

equitable care

long COVID

AHRQ grant

person-centered care

underserved populations

multidisciplinary networks

community education

tele-mentoring

healthcare access

patient advocacy

primary care support