A dedicated long Covid rehabilitation service serving Bath, North East Somerset, Swindon, and Wiltshire since May 2020 is at risk of shutting down due to a significant drop in patient referrals.
By August 2022, more than 2,000 people had been referred to the Bath and North East Somerset, Swindon, and Wiltshire Integrated Care Board (BSW) long Covid service. However, demand has since fallen sharply, with only around 200 new referrals expected annually across the region.
A recent report presented to the Bath and North East Somerset Scrutiny panel on March 9 stated that the long Covid service “no longer represents a good use of limited resources or value for money” in its current form. BSW’s preferred approach is to close the standalone service and integrate care for long Covid patients into existing healthcare pathways.
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Despite this, some councillors voiced concerns about ending a dedicated service given the persistent uncertainties surrounding long Covid. Infectious diseases expert and Combe Down councillor Dr Bharat Pankhania emphasized, “We are still in unknown territory… It is important to keep our surveillance up.” He highlighted the need for ongoing monitoring of emerging symptoms and disabilities that may arise from ongoing or repeated Covid infections, cautioning against complacency despite resource challenges faced by the NHS.
Chew Valley councillor David Harding noted, “We don’t really know the incidence of long Covid,” pointing to rising disability claims that may be linked to long Covid or other post-Covid impacts over recent years. Questions were also raised about public awareness of the long Covid service itself.
Labour councillor Eleanor Jackson, who has experienced long Covid, suggested the possibility of establishing a dedicated GP service for long Covid sufferers, akin to services provided for veterans.
In response, BSW has committed to returning with more detailed information and is also briefing health scrutiny committees at Swindon Borough Council and Wiltshire Council. Other alternatives to full closure remain under consideration.
Following these briefings, BSW plans targeted engagement with service users to collect feedback, which will inform potential revisions to the plan. Any changes will be communicated widely, with implementation expected by the second quarter of the 2026/27 financial year.
Long Covid continues to challenge healthcare professionals and patients alike. Common symptoms include extreme fatigue, shortness of breath, difficulties with concentration and memory, joint pain, and muscle aches. The condition remains incurable and under active research as understanding evolves.