Covid hub closure decision a concern

CONCERNS have been raised over a decision to axe specialised long Covid ‘hubs’ in Cheshire.

- BY MARK SMITH

The hubs were set up in the aftermath of the pandemic to help those suffering from after-effects of Covid-19 such as breathlessness, poor sleep, fatigue, a cough, or anxiety and low mood.

GPs could refer patients for treatments such as respiratory physiotherapy and pain management, as well as for support on non-medical issues, such as benefits, employment and mental health.

NHS Cheshire and Merseyside pulled the plug on the support at the end of March, stating the number of referrals had dropped, while an end to ring-fenced national funding for the clinics had made them ‘unsustainable’.

The trust stressed the same services would still be available through different referral routes, rather than in one central ‘hub’.

But Paul Dolan, who previously served on Cheshire West and Chester Council and worked as a senior specialist NHS commissioner for 15 years, raised concerns over the decision.