Paediatric Post-COVID Services in England- Lessons learned_manuscript

<p dir="ltr"><b>Background:</b> Post-COVID Condition (PCC) involves persistent symptoms following SARS-CoV-2 infection which impact multiple body systems and affect functioning. In June 2021, NHS England established specialist paediatric Post- COVID (PC) hubs to provide support. However, data on the utilisation and effectiveness of these hubs remain limited.</p><p><br></p><p dir="ltr"><b>Methods:</b> NHS England data were employed to analyse referral patterns, including total referrals, rejections, waiting times, and assessments. Sex, age and ethnicity were also examined. Outcome data from a subset of the hubs were analysed.</p><p><br></p><p dir="ltr"><b>Results:</b> Between 2^nd January 2022 and 31^st October 2023, 1,374 referrals were received, with 1,123 assessments conducted. The median duration between referral and initial assessment was 49-55 days. Most patients were female (59%), aged 12-15 (55%) and White (80%). Sparse outcome data suggested improvements in functioning, wellbeing, fatigue, and school attendance.</p><p><br></p><p dir="ltr"><b>Conclusions:</b> While specialist paediatric PC hubs provide critical support, limitations in outcome data and data quality constrain definitive conclusions about their use and effectiveness, highlighting the need for improved reporting systems to better inform service planning.</p>