Web-based telemedicine approach for treatment of post-COVID-19 in Thuringia (WATCH)

Research output: Contribution to journalResearch articleContributedpeer-review

Contributors

  • Philipp A. Reuken - , Friedrich Schiller University Jena (Author)
  • Bianca Besteher - , Friedrich Schiller University Jena (Author)
  • Jutta Bleidorn - , Friedrich Schiller University Jena (Author)
  • Dirk Brockmann - , Center Synergy of Systems (SynoSys), Chair of Biology of Complex Systems (SynoSys) (Author)
  • Kathrin Finke - , Friedrich Schiller University Jena (Author)
  • Antje Freytag - , Friedrich Schiller University Jena (Author)
  • Katja Lehmann-Pohl - , Friedrich Schiller University Jena (Author)
  • Christiana Lemhöfer - , Friedrich Schiller University Jena (Author)
  • Rafael Mikolajczyk - , Martin Luther University Hospital (Author)
  • Christian Puta - , Friedrich Schiller University Jena (Author)
  • André Scherag - , Friedrich Schiller University Jena (Author)
  • Marc Wiedermann - , Robert Koch-Institut (Author)
  • Bettina Zippel-Schultz - , German Foundation for the Chronically Ill (DSCK) (Author)
  • Andreas Stallmach - , Friedrich Schiller University Jena (Author)

Abstract

Objective: After infection with SARS-CoV-2, a substantial proportion of patients develop long-lasting sequelae. These sequelae include fatigue (potentially as severe as that seen in ME/CFS cases), cognitive dysfunction, and psychiatric symptoms. Because the pathophysiology of these sequelae remains unclear, existing therapeutic concepts address the symptoms through pacing strategies, cognitive training, and psychological therapy. Methods: Here, we present a protocol for a digital multimodal structured intervention addressing common symptoms through three intervention modules: BRAIN, BODY, and SOUL. This intervention includes an assessment conducted via a mobile “post-COVID-19 bus” near the patient's home, as well as the use of wearable devices and mobile applications to support pacing strategies and collection of data, including ecological momentary assessment. Results: We will focus on physical component subscore of the SF36 as Quality of Life parameter as the primary outcome parameter for WATCH to take into account the holistic approach that is necessary for care of post-COVID patients Conclusion: In the current project, we present a protocol for a holistic and multimodal structured therapeutic concept which is easily accessible, and scalable for post-COVID patients.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Number of pages14
JournalDigital health
Volume10 (2024)
Publication statusPublished - 14 Oct 2024
Peer-reviewedYes

Keywords

Research priority areas of TU Dresden

Sustainable Development Goals

Keywords

  • fatigue, mobile clinic, Post-COVID, rehabilitation < Lifestyle, telemedicine < General