Long COVID is a complex and variable condition that can persist for weeks, months or longer following the acute phase of COVID-19 infection. Symptoms of long COVID range from mild to debilitating and often fluctuate over time. Family physicians are critical in helping patients manage and coordinate the care for this condition through shared decision making with patients and other specialists by encouraging open dialogue and aligning treatment options with patients’ values and goals.
The guidance on this page uses the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality’s SHARE approach (Seek, Help, Assess, Reach and Evaluate) to facilitate effective communication and decision making with patients experiencing long COVID.
Conversation Starters:
“Which symptoms bother you most, and how have they changed over time?”
“What are your biggest concerns about managing long COVID?”
“How do you feel about your ability to perform daily activities right now?”
Highlight the Importance of Tracking Symptoms:
Discuss Multidisciplinary Care Needs:
Explain the potential need for referrals to other specialists
Mental Health:
Discuss options for psychological support and available treatments
Telehealth Options:
Explore opportunities for the patient to meet virtually with specialists and ensure they understand the technology requirements and resources available.
Disability Accommodations:
Under guidance from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, long COVID may qualify as a disabilityt. Discuss the potential need for school/workplace accommodations or applying for disability benefits if daily functioning is affected.
Conversation Starters:
“I understand what you’re experiencing can be overwhelming. Let’s talk about your specific symptoms and how we can work together to manage them.”
“Would you like to explore options for mental health support, including therapy or medication?”
“How do you feel about telehealth appointments for ongoing management or specialist consultations?”
Long COVID can have diverse impacts, so it’s important to understand what matters most to patients regarding their health and treatment.
Tailor Options to Patient Goals:
Conversation Starters:
“Every person is different, and treatment can be different for different people. Let’s explore some of your treatment options.
“What are your most important goals for managing your long-COVID symptoms?”
Collaborate on a Care Plan: Work with the patient to create a personalized care plan that includes symptom management strategies, referrals, follow-up visits and mental health support.
Set Goals Together: Create clear, SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Time-bound) goals with the patient. Ensure these goals reflect their priorities and can be adjusted as symptoms change.
Conversation Starters:
“Let’s talk about making a gradual return-to-activity plan for your fatigue.”
“Let’s schedule a follow-up appointment in a month to see how things are progressing and adjust the plan, if needed.”
Monitor Progress: Emphasize the importance of regular follow-up visits to adjust the plan based on symptom progression or new challenges.
Adapt the Plan: The relapsing and remitting nature of long COVID means that treatment plans may need to be adjusted periodically.
Empower the Patient: Celebrate progress and provide encouragement for continued efforts.
Conversation Starters:
“How have you been feeling since we started your care plan?”
“Are there any new symptoms or challenges you’d like to discuss?”
“Let’s check in at your next appointment to see if any adjustments are needed.”
*Find references for data on this page in this PDF:
Talking to Patients About Long COVID: Guidance on Shared Decision Making