Covid recovery platform welcome but broader strategy needed, says CSP

The new Your Covid Recovery service forms part of NHS plans to expand access to Covid-19 rehabilitation treatments for those who have survived the virus but still have problems with breathing, mental health problems or other complications. 

The service, launched today, was created out of a project led by CSP member Prof Sally Singh and will ultimately allow patients who access personalised advice and guidance to aid their recovery.

The CSP, which also contributed to the MSK section of the portal, said the portal will provide essential support for Covid patients – but warned that the larger rehabilitation needs of the nation must not be overlooked.

 Prof Karen Middleton, chief executive of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy, said:

‘We know that leaving ICU or being discharged from hospital is not the end of the story for most people recovering from Covid and we are learning more each week about the breadth and depth of support that will be required.

‘This platform offers expert advice from physiotherapists and other members of the rehabilitation team to help people overcome the various symptoms they are battling and help them restore their quality of life.

‘But we know that there is also a huge, unmet level of rehabilitation need among people recovering from, or living with, a wide range of conditions, such as stroke, COPD and arthritis.

 'That unmet need existed before Covid and has only been enhanced since, and that’s why we desperately need a national rehabilitation strategy so that everyone, everywhere, gets access to the high quality care they need.’

 The CSP has joined forces with more than 30 other health organisations to form the Community Rehabilitation Alliance, which is calling on the NHS to end postcode lotteries for services outside of hospital.