Enhancing quality of life in severe post-COVID-19 survivors through multidisciplinary care

Abstract

COVID-19 survivors who were hospitalized continue to experience long-term multi-systemic sequelae and symptoms, impacting their health-related quality of life (HRQo). The complexity of post-COVID-19 conditions underscores the importance of adopting a multidisciplinary, patient-centric approach to ensure ongoing care. This study aims to assess HRQoL and post-COVID symptoms in a cohort of severe COVID-19 survivors depending on their participation in a multidisciplinary program.MethodsThis prospective study was conducted in a post-COVID clinic staffed by a multidisciplinary team (physical rehabilitator, nutritionist, psychologist, including experts in pulmonary rehabilitation, nutrition, psychology, and others). Subjects over 18 years old who were hospitalized by COVID-19 severe during acute phase and accept attend the post-COVID clinic within the first three months following discharge were included. Subjects who were unable or unwilling to provide informed consent to participate in the protocol were excluded. Linear mixed-effect models were employed to examine changes in SF-12 component scores. The resolution of post-COVID symptom clusters was compared using Cox Model.ResultsA total of 730 patients were included, with a mean age of 55.78±15.43 years, 60.55% were male, and 90.62% required mechanical ventilation during hospitalization. Program attendants demonstrated improved SF-12 physical and mental component scores at 3 and 12 months. A reduction in the prevalence of post-COVID symptoms was observed in both groups, with greater reductions in those attending the program.ConclusionOur study showed that multidisciplinary programme experienced improvements in fatigue, musculoskeletal, gastrointestinal, neuropsychiatric, and respiratory symptoms, along with enhanced SF-12 mental and physical component scores.