The Impact of the Covid-19 Pandemic on Cleft Lip and Palate Service Delivery for New Families in the United Kingdom: Medical and Community Service Provider Perspectives

Abstract

Objectives Professionals in the United Kingdom providing care to new families affected by cleft lip and/or palate (CL/P) had to adapt to ensure families’ needs were met during a time of uncertainty due to Covid-19. The aims of this study were to explore the impacts of the pandemic on CL/P care provision for new families from the perspectives of professionals working in medical and community settings along with any personal impact on professionals and their reflections on the future of CL/P care. Design Semistructured interviews (n  =  27) were completed about experiences from March 2020 to October 2020 with consultant cleft surgeons (n  =  15), lead clinical nurse specialists (n  =  8), and staff working at the Cleft Lip and Palate Association (n  =  4). Transcripts were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis. Results Three themes were identified: (1) the impact of Covid-19 on the provision of cleft care in the United Kingdom, including working conditions, delays to treatment, and Covid-19 policies; (2) the impact of the pandemic on professionals’ mental health, including personal distress and concerns about Covid-19 exposure; and (3) reflections on the future of CL/P care, whereby professionals expressed both hope and concern about the Covid-19 recovery effort. Conclusions The ongoing Covid-19 pandemic has impacted CL/P service delivery for new families significantly, warranting recommendations for cohesive psychological support for families in addition to a safe and resourced recovery effort. Support for professionals is also suggested, following existing evidence-based models for providers’ needs that address the difficulties of working throughout challenging times.