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Published on: November 10, 2023
Post-COVID-19 global health strategies: the need for an interdisciplinary approach
Abstract:
For survivors of severe COVID-19 disease, having defeated the virus is just the beginning of an uncharted recovery path. What follows after the acute phase of SARS-CoV-2 infection depends on the extension and severity of viral attacks in different cell types and organs. Despite the ridiculously large number of papers that have flooded scientific journals and preprint-hosting websites, a clear clinical picture of COVID-19 aftermath is vague at best. Without larger prospective observational studies that are only now being started, clinicians can retrieve information just from case reports and or small studies. This is the time to understand how COVID-19 goes forward and what consequences survivors may expect to experience. To this aim, a multidisciplinary post-acute care service involving several specialists has been established at the Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCSS (Rome, Italy). Although COVID-19 is an infectious disease primarily affecting the lung, its multi-organ involvement requires an interdisciplinary approach encompassing virtually all branches of internal medicine and geriatrics. In particular, during the post-acute phase, the geriatrician may serve as the case manager of a multidisciplinary team. The aim of this article is to describe the importance of the interdisciplinary approach--coordinated by geriatrician--to cope the potential post-acute care needs of recovered COVID-19 patients.
Insights
Recovering from severe COVID-19 requires a multidisciplinary approach. Geriatricians can coordinate care for post-acute COVID-19 patients, addressing multi-organ effects and long-term needs.
Area of Science:
- Internal Medicine
- Geriatrics
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- The long-term consequences of severe COVID-19 (Coronavirus Disease 2019) remain unclear due to limited large-scale studies.
- Current understanding relies heavily on case reports and small studies, necessitating further investigation into post-acute sequelae.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the critical need for a structured, multidisciplinary approach to managing the post-acute phase of COVID-19.
- To emphasize the role of geriatricians as case managers in coordinating comprehensive care for COVID-19 survivors.
Main Methods:
- Establishment of a multidisciplinary post-acute care service at Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCSS.
- Integration of various medical specialties to address the multi-organ involvement characteristic of COVID-19.
Main Results:
- COVID-19's impact extends beyond the lungs, affecting multiple organs and necessitating a broad range of medical expertise.
- A coordinated, interdisciplinary team is essential for managing the complex needs of patients recovering from severe SARS-CoV-2 infection.
Conclusions:
- An interdisciplinary approach, coordinated by geriatricians, is crucial for effectively managing the diverse and potentially long-lasting health issues faced by COVID-19 survivors.
- This model of care aims to provide comprehensive support, addressing the multi-systemic effects of the virus and improving patient recovery trajectories.
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