The impact of COVID-19 on rare and complex connective tissue diseases: the experience of ERN ReCONNET

Area of Science:

• Medical Science
• Public Health

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted healthcare systems globally.
• Routine care for non-COVID-19 conditions, including rare connective tissue diseases (rCTDs), was often limited due to resource reallocation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To discuss the challenges faced by healthcare providers, institutions, and patients within the rCTDs community during the SARS-CoV-2 outbreak.
• To emphasize the importance of maintaining continuity of care for rCTDs.
• To highlight the need for structured emergency strategies for rare diseases.

Main Methods:

• This is a Perspective article, drawing on the multi-stakeholder input from the European Reference Network on Rare and Complex Connective Tissue and Musculoskeletal Diseases (ERN ReCONNET).
• The article analyzes the clinical, organizational, and health economic challenges experienced during the pandemic.

Main Results:

• The pandemic underscored the vulnerability of patients with rCTDs.
• Disruptions in diagnostics and monitoring protocols affected the management of rCTDs.
• The importance of adaptable healthcare systems and dedicated emergency plans for rare diseases was demonstrated.

Conclusions:

• Continuity of care for rCTDs is essential, even during widespread health emergencies.
• Future health policies must consider the specific needs of vulnerable populations like those with rCTDs.
• Proactive planning for future health crises is necessary to ensure equitable care for all conditions.