Narrative analysis of experiences accessing care for long COVID in Canada

Abstract

This study explored experiences seeking care for long COVID in the Canadian healthcare system. We randomly sampled participants who completed a Canada-wide survey study on long COVID and conducted eight interviews. Participants varied broadly in age, were mostly female (75%), and lived in five different provinces. Through narrative analysis of these interviews, we identified five narratives: (1)situation: this has…, (2) identity: I am…, (3) personal capacity: I can…, (4) system capacity: I think the system…, and (5) work: (when) I tried… Collectively these narratives describe the complex care seeking experience of participants in this study. To make system-level improvements to a healthcare system built for acute illnesses, it is pivotal that we understand the care seeking experiences of chronic illness patients, including the unique experiences of those with long COVID.