| Title: | Impact of Covid-19 on pulmonary fibrosis patients, carers and healthcare professionals and future advocacy priorities. |
|---|---|
| Author(s): | N Cassidy L Fox L Brown L Galvin K O’Reilly |
| Institution: | Irish Lung Fibrosis Association |
| Poster: | Click to view poster |
| Category: | COVID-19 |
| Abstract: | The Irish Lung Fibrosis Association (ILFA) conducted an online/telephone survey from 16 April-5 May 2020 to assess Covid-19’s impact on its stakeholders. 111 pulmonary fibrosis patients (43% female), 59 carers (86% female) and 49 healthcare professionals (HCP) (71% female) responded. 17% patients were diagnosed <1-year, 64% diagnosed 2 to 5-years and 19% diagnosed >5-years. 51% patients lived with a spouse/partner, 36% used oxygen and 66% took anti-fibrotics. 33% patients had a telephone consultation with their medical team since Covid-19 restrictions, 43% had tests postponed and 39% had results delayed. 83% patients and 88% carers were concerned about a patient’s ability to access urgent hospital care. 47% patients exercised less, 15% patients and 42% carers were financially worse off. 58% of carers, 23% patients and 29% HCP had poorer sleep quality. 42% carers were "extremely worried” compared to patients (32%) and HCP (6%). The mean level of worry for patients, carers and HCP was 7.4/10, 8.1/10 and 6.5/10 respectively. Patient and carer scores were significantly higher than for the general public (6.6/10)1. The advocacy priorities for all stakeholders included having an ILD clinical care programme, pulmonary rehabilitation access and greater awareness. Carers and patients experienced significant Covid-19 worry and may benefit from psychological support. 1https://assets.gov.ie/73911/25d65090b992459783120064745187c6.pdf |
