In early 2020, we began to hear about a virus called SARS-CoV-2 (COVID- 19). No one could imagine that this virus would result in a global pandemic with huge changes in our daily life and, most important, in our healthcare.

As the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded last year, Myeloma Patients Europe (MPE) became aware that the pandemic, and the restrictions imposed, were impacting the healthcare and lives of people with myeloma and AL amyloidosis, and their caregivers. Through our COVID-19 Outreach Workstream, and as part of our mission to provide education, information, and support to members and to advocate at European, national, and local levels, MPE began research to learn more about the effects of COVID-19 on the patient community.

MPE has published a report summarising the results of a series of semi-structured focus groups conducted to collect personal experiences and broader insights from patients and caregivers.

“This report provides insights into the patient and carer experience during COVID-19, its impact on diagnosis and treatment, effects on quality of life and psychosocial needs, and prompt access to vaccines, or lack thereof. The findings from this report can help identify potential needs of myeloma and AL amyloidosis patients, existing gaps in knowledge and services, and inequalities in access, which will be used to support MPE’s ongoing efforts to advocate for improved treatment, care, and access for the European patient community”, says Ananda Plate, CEO of MPE.

 Click here to read or download the full report.