Regional health authority CISSSO is opening a specialized clinic for people living with long Covid, which is when symptoms of COVID-19 persist longer than 12 weeks after the initial infection. The range of symptoms can be quite broad, from fatigue and shortness of breath, to cognitive issues. Females, those with underlying conditions and those who were hospitalized due to their initial infection are at a higher risk of developing lingering symptoms.

CHIP 101.9 spoke with Dr. Melanie Lacasse, a family physician who advised CISSSO in the creation of the clinic. She explained that the clinic will offer a variety of specialized services, from an occupational therapist to a social worker. In addition to in-person services at their location in Gatineau, some of their services will be available via video conference.

To access these services, patients must be 18 years of age, and be referred by a physician or nurse practitioner. Those without a family doctor can be referred by contacting the Guichet d'accès de première ligne (GAP) by dialling 811, option 3.

Dr. Lacasse explained that medical literature is currently evolving and health specialists are still studying how to treat people with the condition.

The full interview with Dr. Lacasse is available below: