Exploring the role of a systems approach in improving long-COVID clinics
Tan, Garret (1,2); Bashford, Tom (1,3,4); Clarkson, P. John (1,4)
Type:
Year:
2026
Editor:
Štorga, M.; Škec, S.; Martinec, T.; Marjanović, D.; Pavković, N.
Author:
Series:
DESIGN
Institution:
1: Health Systems Design Group, Department of Engineering, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom; 2: Therapies Department, Whipps Cross Hospital, Barts Health NHS Trust, London, United Kingdom; 3: Department of Anaesthesia, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Cambridge, United Kingdom; 4: Cambridge Public Health interdisciplinary research centre, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
Page(s):
1811-1820
DOI number:
ISSN:
2732-527X (Online)
Abstract:
Long-COVID is a complex, multi-system condition with variable care across the UK. Using a systems and design engineering approach underpinned by Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE), this study examined Long-COVID clinic pathways through semi-structured interviews with 15 clinicians and patients. Thematic analysis identified five domains—attitudes, relationships, service integration, technology adoption, and safety netting. The final synthesised swimlane diagram revealed opportunities to improve coordination, operational efficiency, and patient safety within evolving care models.
Keywords:
