Development of a Model One Stop Approach to Post-COVID-19 and other Rehabilitation Conditions.

Abstract

Background Post-COVID-19 cases can cause severe disabling symptoms and functional disabilities. WHO recognizes the severity of the condition and publishes a standardised Case Report Form to inform clinical management and public health response. Objective To determine the post-COVID-19 case load. A multidisciplinary team including a diverse team were composed and priority intervention areas were identified through a transdisciplinary approach eventually developing a Model One Stop Approach to post-COVID-19 and other Rehabilitation Conditions. Method The COVID-19 cases recorded at Dhulikhel Hospital were monitored through phone calls to post-COVID-19 complications. Patients were then invited for additional clinical assessments. A diverse team conducted these assessments to identify the needs for expanding a post-COVID-19 clinic and devised rehabilitation services based on predefined criteria. Result A total of 550 respondents were included in the study. The proportion of males (51.7%) was slightly higher than females (48.3%) with the majority of them being Brahmin/Chettri. The primary comorbidities identified were diabetes (10.55%) and hypertension (11.4%). Of the participants, about 50.73% experienced persistent symptoms. About 17.8% reported lasting muscle-related problems, 12.1% had persistent joint pain, and 33% faced temporary cardiac issues. Less than 10% experienced enduring health problems related to vision, hearing, and sleep patterns. Conclusion After COVID-19, patients experienced cardiac and muscle-related issues, increasing morbidity, financial burdens, and pressure on healthcare systems. With the need of sustainable rehabilitation training package, Dhulikhel Hospital serves as a model for a One-Stop Approach to post-COVID-19 and other rehabilitation conditions.