Rivers Hospital Long COVID Service (RLCS) in Sawbridgeworth

Rivers Hospital long COVID service is a new multi-disciplinary service that utilises the advanced skills and knowledge of Respiratory, Neurological and Pain Management Consultants alongside Specialist Physiotherapists within Respiratory, Neurological and Rehabilitation to help individuals overcome lasting symptoms of COVID-19. It will allow individuals the opportunity to gain direct access to Consultants or Specialist Physiotherapists who can assess them to establish if their symptoms are due to long COVID before beginning the Physiotherapy led Enhanced Recovery Rehabilitation Programme to gain control of their symptoms.

Who is the Physiotherapy LCS pathway aimed at?

We appreciate that some individuals may already have a diagnosis of long COVID and had a range of diagnostic tests completed by their GP or Consultant. If this is the case, the individual can self refer to receive a comprehensive Physiotherapy assessment and start directly into the physiotherapy led Enhanced Recovery Rehabilitation Programme, if appropriate. For some individuals, we recognise a group environment may not be suitable and therefore 1:1 rehabilitation can be provided. Throughout the programme, the Physiotherapists and Consultants work closely to provide the individual with the most appropriate recovery plan.

Long COVID Symptoms:

Symptoms that cannot be explained by any other diagnosis and as a consequence of a positive COVID-19 test.

  • Breathlessness
  • Fatigue
  • Poor concentration/memory ("brain fog")
  • Difficulty sleeping
  • Joint pain
  • Reduced exercise tolerance
  • Muscle weakness
  • Impaired balance
  • Headaches

When to come and see us:

If you have had your symptoms for longer than 6 weeks following your positive COVID-19 diagnosis and they do not appear to be improving. If you're unable to return to your "normal" pre-COVID daily routine and have a history of a positive test for COVID-19.

How often will I be seen?

You may only need an initial assessment. If appropriate you will be invited to join the six-week Enhanced Recovery Rehabilitation Programme (ERRP) group run by our specialist physiotherapists. This will be discussed with you once we have completed your initial assessment.

Long COVID Initial Assessment – what does this involve?

Individuals will receive a comprehensive physiotherapy assessment which will involve:

  • Detailed history taking of symptoms
  • Medical history
  • Assessment of breathing function
  • Functional outcome measures (including breathing assessment and exercise tolerance testing)
  • Advice on breathing management
  • Discussion and setting of rehabilitation goals
  • Invitation to join the Enhanced Recovery Rehabilitation Programme (if appropriate)

What might I expect from the Enhanced Recovery Rehabilitation Programme (ERRP):

The Enhanced Recovery Rehabilitation programme is multi-faceted and goal-focused involving exercise, education and allowing individuals to discuss their experiences and symptoms. Individuals will safely increase their exercise tolerance through a weekly graduated group exercise programme. The education aspect of the programme addresses a range of common long COVID-19 symptoms including breathlessness, fatigue and `memory fog’ by providing individuals with evidence-based daily strategies and techniques that the patient can complete to overcome their symptoms.

Once the individual has achieved their specific goals, they will become independent in managing their symptoms and have access to the specialist team for ongoing support and advice. 

Self-Pay Costs:

Type: Physiotherapist-led pathway
Format: 1:1
Includes: RLCS initial consultation
Cost: £60

Type: Enhanced Recovery Rehabilitation Package
Format: 6 group sessions plus 1:1 discharge follow up
Cost: £300

Contact us

To find out more information or book your initial assessment please call us on 01279 602632.

Our Teams

We have a team of expert professional and experienced clinical Chartered Physiotherapists. We work to Physiotherapy Chartered Society Standards supporting best practice and will strive to provide the best in patient care. Take a look here at our team of Physiotherapists.

Should you need to see a consultant we can arrange for you to see one here at Rivers Hospital.

Long Covid Specialists at Rivers Hospital

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