UNM Health Sciences has announced that Dr. Michelle Harkins, a professor of medicine, provided testimony at a U.S. Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions (HELP) Committee hearing on addressing long COVID-19. Harkins aimed to elucidate the complex issues associated with long COVID-19 and explore ways to enhance both research efforts and patient care.
According to a press release by UNM Health Sciences, Harkins presented key recommendations to the committee. She urged federal support for patients and providers dealing with Long COVID-19. Her suggestions included sustained funding for research, establishing a transparent research network for data sharing at all levels, preventing future occurrences, supporting clinicians nationwide with updated best practices, and simplifying patient access to clinical care.
Harkins said in the press release: "I know we all want answers yesterday because patients are suffering. Long COVID is really complex, and as my colleagues have mentioned it affects every organ system – all the different cells are involved – and so trying to come up with a one-size fits all (approach) is not going to work."
She further added: "Expanded investment in the development of a national network for telementoring would make a huge difference. This national network of local providers and regional and national experts, once created, would then be available to help respond to the next pandemic or health emergency as it arises. This is telementoring for providers, but in theory this model could be created as regional Long COVID Clinics where the experts actually consult with the patients."
The HELP committee comprises 21 senators: 11 democrats and 10 republicans. Established in 1869, it oversees three subcommittees with broad jurisdiction over national healthcare, education, employment, and retirement policies according to its About webpage.
