Intensive Care Society Welcomes Groundbreaking Report on Rehabilitation after Critical Illness

The Intensive Care Society (ICS) welcomes the publication of the National Confidential Enquiry into Patient Outcome and Death (NCEPOD) report, Recovery Beyond Survival—a significant step forward in recognising the long-term rehabilitation needs of survivors of critical illness.

While most patients admitted to intensive care units survive to hospital discharge, this survival often comes at a considerable cost. Many experience lasting physical, psychological, and social challenges. Recovery Beyond Survival shines a spotlight on these issues and provides vital insights into the current rehabilitation services offered to this vulnerable group.

The Society is proud to see the culmination of this work and to have contributed throughout its development, working in partnership with the intensive care community and beyond. It has been a privilege to work with our members to submit this important topic for NCEPOD’s consideration and help shape such a vital and timely piece of work.

“This report provides essential insights into the rehabilitation challenges faced by critical care survivors,” said NCEPOD Clinical Co-ordinator and Chair of the Intensive Care Society’s National Rehabilitative Collaborative, Professor David McWilliams. “Too often, patients' needs are missed or addressed too late, and care is inconsistent as they move between different parts of the healthcare system. A coordinated, multidisciplinary approach is not just recommended—it is vital. We hope this report will drive the systemic change that patients urgently need.”

The findings highlight significant gaps in current provision: rehabilitation needs are frequently not identified early enough; even when they are, access to appropriate services is often delayed or uneven. The transition from intensive care to ward areas and onward into the community is marked by a lack of continuity and oversight.

For years, the Society has raised concerns about the unmet needs of this patient population. We are pleased that this report recognises the importance of joined-up, person-centred rehabilitation, and outlines clear recommendations for improvement at both patient and organisational levels.

Professor Shondipon Laha, President of the Society added: “Critical illness can have life-altering consequences. This report is a powerful tool for change—it confirms what many in our field have long known and sets out the actions we must take. We at the Intensive Care Society, will continue our work to ensure rehabilitation becomes a standard, well-coordinated part of every ICU patient’s journey.”

The Intensive Care Society fully endorses the recommendations of Recovery Beyond Survival and remains deeply committed to its delivery. As a multi-professional organisation, we will play a leading role in driving forward improvements across hospital and community services to ensure survivors of critical illness are supported—not only to survive, but to recover and thrive.

The report along with summaries and additional QI resources can be found on the study page.