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. 2023 Jan-Feb;21(1):73-75.
doi: 10.1370/afm.2898.

Patients' Experiences With Therapeutic Approaches for Post-COVID Syndrome: Results of a Crowdsourced Research Survey

Carina Klocke  1 , Jan Valentini  2 , Regina Stolz  2 , Lena Gaßner  2 , Stefanie Joos  2   3 , Christian Förster  2
Affiliations

Patients' Experiences With Therapeutic Approaches for Post-COVID Syndrome: Results of a Crowdsourced Research Survey

Carina Klocke et al. Ann Fam Med. 2023 Jan-Feb.

Abstract

Some patients develop multiple protracted sequelae after infection with SARS-CoV-2, collectively known as post-COVID syndrome or long COVID. To date, there is no evidence showing benefit of specific therapies for this condition, and patients likely resort to self-initiated therapies. We aimed to obtain information about therapies used by and needs of this population via inductive crowdsourcing research. Patients completed an online questionnaire about their symptoms and experiences with therapeutic approaches. Responses of 499 participants suggested few approaches (eg, mind-body medicine, respiratory therapy) had positive effects and showed a great need for patient-centered communication (eg, more recognition of this syndrome). Our findings can help design clinical studies and underscore the importance of the holistic approach to care provided by family medicine.

Keywords: COVID-19/complications; COVID-19/therapy; chronic disease/therapy; crowdsourcing research; family medicine; holistic care; long COVID; patient needs; patient-centered communication; self-management; self-medication; surveys and questionnaires.

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