A clinic run by Washington University School of Medicine has closed its doors, leaving hundreds of patients with Long COVID facing uncertainty about their future care. The CARE (Care and Recovery After COVID-19) Clinic in St. Louis was a lifeline for many patients who suffered from debilitating symptoms such as fatigue, nausea, and difficulty breathing after contracting COVID-19.
Emily, 34, a patient at the clinic, said her experience there was life-changing. “She said everything I was describing was in line with the experiences of other patients and consistent with what we know about Long COVID,” Emily recalled. “After three years, I could name my condition definitively, and a healthcare professional wasn’t afraid to take my suffering seriously.”
The clinic, which opened in October 2020, provided specialized care for patients with Long COVID. However, due to the abrupt departure of its leading physician, the clinic was forced to close. University officials say they are working on a transition plan, which may involve replacing the physician and reopening the clinic.
Patients at the clinic expressed fear that losing their access to specialized care could lead to backsliding in their recovery. “Losing the CARE Clinic is a devastating blow,” said Jess, 36, of St. Louis. “I’ve come so far in my progress, and I am scared to lose everything I’ve worked so hard for without the support of Long COVID-competent providers.”
Long COVID is a chronic condition that affects millions of Americans, with around 23 million reported cases in 2023. The condition can result in severe symptoms, including organ damage and blood clots, and can even lead to disability.
The closure of the CARE Clinic has sparked concern among patient advocacy groups, who argue that it will have a devastating impact on patients’ quality of life. “With each clinic that shuts down, our communities lose not just care but also hope for recovery and a better quality of life,” said Laurie Jones, executive director of #MEAction.
The university is working to ensure that patients continue to receive ongoing care from their specialists, but the closure has left many wondering what the future holds.
Source: https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/business/health-care/article_e834303f-9b13-4bdd-a804-139cd1c6cb1e.html