Scots with long Covid would fare better in England, claims Libdem hopeful
A CANDIDATE vying to become the next leader of the Scottish Libdems has claimed Scots with long Covid would be better off moving to England to receive support.
Alex Cole-hamilton, the party’s health spokesperson, has called for a co-ordinated national action plan to be drawn up for long Covid in Scotland.
The Edinburgh Western MSP previously met representatives from the Long Covid Scotland group to discuss what measures the organisation would like taken forward. Mr Cole-hamilton has used a visit to Future Gym in South Queensferry to set out his party’s plans.
The blueprint includes specialist long Covid clinics, the training of long Covid community nurses to offer in-home support, country-wide access to long Covid physiotherapy, and multi-disciplinary rehab.
The Libdems also want a policy of no financial detriment for Scottish public sector workers who are absent for long periods of time due to long Covid.
Mr Cole-hamilton has pointed to patients in England having access to a network of specialist clinics and other support services while those in Scotland are directed to a charity advice phoneline, internet guidance and GP support.
He said: “There needs to a co-ordinated plan for helping the tens of thousands of Scots suffering with long Covid.
“As it stands, people with long Covid would be better off moving to England, given how woeful provision for the condition is here in Scotland.
“GPS and charities are doing their best but this debilitating event is on a different scale. The Government’s webpages aren’t much use to someone with air-hunger who feels like they are suffocating and is literally gasping for breath.
“Specialist Covid clinics should exist as a one-stop shop. There is a real advantage in being able to see the medical professionals you need in one place. It could be combined with other help to access wider support and financial advice.”
Mr Cole-hamilton added: “Physio, help to resume activities and strengthening support will also be important because fatigue, limb weakness and muscle atrophy are just a few of the common problems people are facing.
“The SNP Government has overlooked this hidden pandemic for too long and needs to take the best practice of our English neighbours and start delivering for the tens of thousands of Scots battling this devastating condition.
“We shouldn’t be afraid to learn from successes elsewhere in the UK. Over the coming months, I intend to champion the case of Scots who have been left behind by the
Scottish Government.”
Speaking to MSPS to confirm Scotland’s move “beyond Level Zero” yesterday, the First Minister warned that “the harm that the virus can do, including through the impact of long Covid, should not be underestimated”.