Evaluation of a patient self-stratification methodology to identify those in need of shielding during COVID-19

Abstract

The logistical challenges of rapidly and accurately identifying those patients who needed to shield during the COVID-19 pandemic were unprecedented. We report our experiences of meeting this challenge for >9,000 patients with rheumatic and musculoskeletal disease at our centre, incorporating an element of guided patient self-stratification. Our results indicate that patients are able to stratify their own risk accurately using the BSR COVID-19 risk stratification guidance.

Keywords: British Society for Rheumatology; COVID-19; rheumatic and musculoskeletal disease; service evaluation.