CONSUMER EXPERIENCE OF AN AUSTRALIAN MULTIDISCIPLINARY LONG COVID CLINIC THAT INCORPORATES PERSONALISED EXERCISE PRESCRIPTION: A QUALITATIVE ANALYSIS

Abstract

INTRODUCTION & AIMS Little is known about the Australian experience of Long COVID recovery, particularly with respect to exercise prescription. The aim of this study was to understand the consumer experience and acceptability of a novel Australian Long COVID Recovery Clinic that incorporates personalised exercise prescription, including respiratory and peripheral strengthening and carefully monitored cardiovascular training. METHODS Qualitative study; semi-structured interviews with a convenience sample of participants who have completed a multidisciplinary, individually-tailored and supervised programme at our Long COVID Recovery Clinic. Interviews were conducted by a researcher external to the clinic delivery. Major themes were identified by inductive thematic analysis. RESULTS 15 participants were interviewed. 14/15 (93%) participants described the clinic model as acceptable or highly acceptable. Five core themes were identified, including (1) encouraging staff and light-filled facilities are key to support recovery; (2) individually tailored, supervised exercise and pacing helped to improve confidence in building exercise capacity; (3) peer support and group therapy augments recovery; (4) recovery from Long COVID is incomplete, and other services augment the Long COVID Recovery Clinic model; and (5) importance of GP involvement in connection with clinic participation. Suggestions for improvement included extending the duration of the clinic programme beyond 2 months, reducing wait times by increasing staffing levels and adjusting the clinic schedule to broaden access options. CONCLUSION The majority of participants found the Long COVID Recovery Clinic, which incorporates both supervised exercise and pacing, acceptable and would recommend it to others. From the consumer perspective, the Long COVID Recovery Clinic aids recovery alongside GP management through a combination of peer support and an individually tailored program.