Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon, and Wiltshire Long Covid service extended amid patient demand
Specialist support set to continue until April 2027 following review
The long Covid service for Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon, and Wiltshire is proposed to remain operational for the rest of the financial year, continuing until at least April 2027 due to patient demand.
Initially introduced in May 2020, the service offers specialist assessments, rehabilitation, support, and guidance for adults facing ongoing Covid-19 symptoms.
Although the number of referrals reduced from almost 80 per month to approximately 11 as of 2026, a review reveals that the service remains "highly valued" among users.
Despite the government ceasing funding, feedback from patients, carers, clinicians, and stakeholders underscored the service’s significance as a "lifeline."
Various options were assessed, including continuation, disbandment, integration into existing pathways, or expansion to support Long Covid, post-viral, and chronic conditions.
Feedback indicated strong preference for retaining specialist support, with only 4.3 percent of respondents endorsing integration into other services.
Further work is needed to determine the service's long-term future, given concerns about hidden demand and broader care models for chronic conditions like Chronic Fatigue Syndrome.
Consequently, the Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon, and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board recommends continuing the service throughout the 2026/27 financial year for continued review.
The Wiltshire Council Health Select Committee is set to deliberate the report on 7th September.