Apps, News

NHS Wales launch recovery app to support people with long COVID

NHS Wales has launched an app to aid the recovery process of people suffering with long COVID.

The bilingual COVID recovery app, which contains more than 100 videos and links to advice, will allow users to record their symptoms, track their progress and learn to manage their condition at home.

Users of the app will also be able to access advice from psychologists, dietitians, therapists and consultants.

Developed on behalf of the Welsh Government, the app is part of a wider national approach to support people with post-COVID syndrome which includes aiding health professionals to recognise the symptoms, signposting people to support and providing a clear pathway for people going through the healthcare system.

Vaughan Gething, Health Minister, said of the app: “We are still learning about the virus but it is estimated that around that around 1 in 10 people who have had coronavirus suffer some long-term symptoms. The launch of this app, which is the first of its kind, is to reassure those people that there is support available to them and that they are not alone.

“This app is part of a wider national approach which has been put into place to recognise those people who months later are still feeling a range of cardiac, neurological and psychological issues.

“Anyone can download the app but we’re also asking health professionals to recommend it to their patients so that their care can continue at home long after their appointment ends.”

Dr Fiona Jenkins, Executive Director of Therapies at Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, added: “I’m delighted that we’ve been able to produce this app for the people of Wales which offers a huge range of clinical advice and allows you to support yourself, it lets you set goals, track your progress and monitor your symptoms over time.”

In other news, a patient app has been created for people in Rotherham to access primary and secondary care services through one integrated app.