What was the impact of the first wave of COVID-19 on the delivery of care to children and adults with congenital heart disease? A qualitative study using online forums.

The importance of clear, consistent communication cannot be over-estimated. Our findings, while collected in relation to patients with CHD, are not necessarily specific to this population and we believe that they reflect the experiences of many thousands of people with life-long conditions in the UK. Recommendations related to communication, service delivery and support during the pandemic may improve patients' experience of care and, potentially, their outcomes.