Optimizing Long COVID Outcomes: An Interdisciplinary Survey of U.S. Rehabilitation Providers

Abstract

Purpose: Clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) can optimize Long COVID rehabilitation outcomes; however, an understanding of the target condition and available resources influence the adoption of CPGs. This study explored rehabilitation provider's awareness of Long COVID and their use of associated CPGs within the United States. Methods: A cross-sectional sample of 300 rehabilitation providers (100 physical therapists, 100 occupational therapists, 100 speech-language pathologists) were randomly selected from the state with the highest prevalence of Long COVID within each of the 9 U.S. geographic divisions. A total of 2700 participants were invited to complete a survey exploring their awareness of Long COVID and use of CPGs. Results: Surveys were received from 299 providers (11.6% response rate) across all identified states and disciplines. Most (70.2%) reported awareness of Long COVID symptomatology. Few were aware of relevant CPGs (12.7%) or used them (7.4%) in practice. Although 39.8% reported awareness of symptom exacerbation triggers, only 8.3% knew of associated screening tools. Similar trends were noted when responses were limited to those who treat Long COVID. Nearly all respondents (88.2%) believed that Long COVID will persist in the rehabilitation community. Conclusion: Rehabilitation providers perceive that they are aware of Long COVID symptomatology, although there is a lack of awareness and application of relevant CPGs across disciplines. Discrepancies between providers' perceived and actual understanding of Long COVID rehabilitation likely exist that can impede outcomes if evidence-based resources are underused. Interdisciplinary initiatives to enhance evidence translation to rehabilitation are needed to optimize Long COVID practice.