NICE Draft Guideline Seeks to Standardise Rehabilitation for Long-Term Neurological Conditions

Introduction

An estimated one in six people in the UK live with a neurological condition, including acquired brain injuries. NICE’s new draft guideline addresses the inconsistent access to rehabilitation services by recommending a standardised, multidisciplinary approach across health and social care sectors. The aim is to ensure individuals receive continuous and comprehensive support tailored to their evolving needs.

Key Recommendations

• Single Point of Contact: Assign complex case managers within each of the 42 Integrated Care Boards in England to coordinate care across various services.
• Improved Assessment and Referral Pathways: Enhance processes for assessing patient needs and streamline referrals, including re-referrals for those with changing conditions.
• Accessible Information: Ensure patients, families, and carers are informed about available rehabilitation services in their area.
• Cross-Sector Collaboration: Foster stronger partnerships between healthcare providers, social services, educational institutions, and employers to support holistic rehabilitation efforts.

Stakeholder Perspectives

Professor Jonathan Benger, Chief Medical Officer and Interim Director of the Centre for Guidelines at NICE, stated that consistent rehabilitation support is crucial for maintaining independence and wellbeing.

Dr Ian Bernstein, Chair of the NICE Guideline Committee, highlighted the importance of coordinated care across various sectors to prevent patients from falling through gaps in services.

Georgina Carr, Chief Executive of The Neurological Alliance, noted that a significant percentage of adults and children expressed a desire for outpatient rehabilitation services that were not accessible to them, underscoring the need for the proposed guideline.

Conclusion

The draft guideline represents a significant step toward improving rehabilitation services for individuals with long-term neurological conditions. By advocating for integrated care and consistent support, NICE aims to enhance the quality of life for this population. The consultation period for the draft guideline is open until 20 May, with the final publication expected later this year.

Citation:
National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. (2025, April 8). New draft guideline aims to transform rehabilitation for millions with long-term neurological conditions. NICE.