Patient-centred interprofessional teleconsultation for post-viral symptom complexes in German primary care—protocol for the cluster-randomised controlled COVI-Care M-V trial

Abstract

Background: Post-viral syndromes, including long- and post-COVID, often lead to persistent symptoms such as fatigue and dyspnoea, affecting patients' daily lives and ability to work. The COVI-Care M-V trial examines whether interprofessional, patient-centred teleconsultations, initiated by general practitioners in cooperation with specialists, can help reduce symptom burden and improve care for patients. Methods: To evaluate the effectiveness of the intervention under routine care conditions, a cluster-randomised controlled trial is being conducted. The primary outcome is physical performance, assessed by the difference between the actual and individually defined target distance in the 6-min walk test. Secondary outcomes include health-related quality of life (PAC-19QoL), cognitive function (DemTect), lung function (peak flow meter), fatigue symptoms (FAS), and weekly working hours, measured at baseline (T0) and after four months (T1). Results: In the absence of evidence-based therapies for post-viral symptom complexes, multidisciplinary care and support currently represent the mainstay of patient management. The COVI-Care M-V study evaluates a regionally tailored, patient-centred intervention, developed based on qualitative research and piloting. Anticipated challenges include selection bias, recruitment difficulties due to healthcare staff shortages, and underreporting of symptoms, which will be addressed through targeted awareness materials and digital support for participating practices. Conclusions: This study aims to generate evidence to enhance care, particularly by optimising healthcare structures for affected individuals. Trial registration: ISRCTN, ISRCTN11050086. Registered 28 April 2025