AQW 9000/17-22

Ms Paula Bradshaw
Alliance Party
South Belfast

Tabled Date: 19/10/2020
Answered On Date: 30/10/2020
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister of Health what assurances he can give that Graded Exercise Therapy will not be used in the treatment of Long COVID, given the caution advised by experts, including in Healthcare Improvement Scotland, over its use.

Answer:

It is recognised that a small minority of people who have had both mild and severe symptoms of Covid-19 can experience long-term health effects. The Department of Health continues to review the emerging evidence and experience, both locally and nationally, and will develop guidance alongside national guidance to support patients where appropriate.

In particular, my Department is progressing a local enquiry to consider the physical, rehabilitation, psychological and mental health requirements of post-Covid-19 patients. In addition, the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence and the Scottish Intercollegiate Guidelines Network are working with the Royal College of General Practitioners (RCGP) to develop a guideline on the persistent effects of Covid-19 which is expected to be published at the end of the year.

The findings of this work will be fully considered alongside the wider body of emerging research to inform future policy and service decisions.