The report is based on an international survey conducted by the German Federal Pension Insurance (Deutsche Rentenversicherung Bund – DRV Bund). Fifteen social security institutions from Africa, Asia, North America and Europe, all members of the Working Group, actively participated in the survey. The aim was to assess care for COVID-19 and post-COVID-19 conditions with a primary focus on rehabilitation services. Recognizing differences in social security and health care systems, the intention was not to directly compare strategies but to facilitate knowledge exchange.

“The WHO Rehabilitation Programme welcomes this ISSA report. It is very useful for countries around the world that are developing health services for COVID-19 survivors experiencing mid- and long-term consequences”, said Dr Wouter De Groote from the World Health Organization (WHO).

The report analyses data specific to each country’s experience with COVID-19 and post-COVID-19 conditions, draws lessons learnt, and identifies both best practices and areas where further research is needed. It demonstrates that while countries have managed patients with post-COVID-19 condition within given resources, the financial impact on rehabilitation and rehabilitation services is an issue to be considered. The sharing of best practices aimed at reducing resource consumption is therefore of considerable value.

Through this report, the working group aims to improve knowledge, reflecting on how social security institutions can most effectively contribute to addressing the increased rehabilitation needs in light of the experiences from the pandemic. It will build on this report in the future by sharing knowledge and best practices at the international level.

The report is currently available in English, and is being translated into French, German and Spanish.