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Recovery from COVID-19 and other infections can be prolonged and unpredictable. Some individuals experience ongoing health problems such as fatigue, brain fog, shortness of breath, or pain that persist long after the initial illness. These symptoms may reflect Long COVID and sometimes may also be classified as myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS)—a complex, disabling condition that can follow various infections.

From 2021 through June 2025, the UNC COVID Recovery Clinic provided interdisciplinary care for thousands of patients struggling with Long COVID. Although that program has closed, the UNC Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation (PM&R) continues to offer focused medical care for patients with lingering symptoms due to Long COVID or ME/CFS.


Our Approach

Our care is grounded in current research and experience treating Long COVID and ME/CFS. PM&R providers will complete a detailed evaluation focused on fatigue, cognitive symptoms, physical functioning, and quality of life. Visits may occur in person (in Chapel Hill, NC) or via telemedicine, depending on your location and clinical needs.

We will:

  • Review your medical history and symptom course
  • Assess physical function and cognition
  • Identify possible contributing factors and comorbidities
  • Recommend therapies or activity modifications to support function and recovery

Your referring provider will receive a summary of the visit with specific care recommendations. Ongoing management will occur through your existing care team, with our clinic serving as a consultant for symptom evaluation and treatment planning.


What to Expect from Your Visit

Care is provided in a one-on-one visit with a UNC PM&R provider.  Depending on your needs, follow up visits or additional workup or referrals may be recommended. Our visits will focus on assessing your symptoms, identifying contributing factors, and offering evidence-based recommendations to support recovery and improve daily functioning.

Please note that due to limited clinic resources, the following services are generally not available: completion of disability or FMLA paperwork, insurance prior authorizations, referrals to specialists outside the UNC Health system or local area, and access to a social worker.  Patients needing these services should follow up with their primary care provider for ongoing support and coordination of care.


Who We See

We provide consultative care for adults (18+) with:

  • Symptoms lasting longer than 1 month after a confirmed or suspected COVID-19 illness, and/or
  • Features consistent with ME/CFS, including limiting fatigue with post-exertional malaise, unrefreshing sleep, and cognitive dysfunction

Referrals may be submitted through Epic ( “Ambulatory Referral to Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation”) or via fax (984-974-9786). Please include recent medical records and pertinent diagnostic testing in the referral packet.


Resources

Educational Handouts

Web links: