People after an intensive care stay often have Post intensive care syndrome (PICS) this is a combination of physical impairments and limitations such as muscle weakness, decreased stamina, shortness of breath, pain and stiffness in the joints. The physical effects after an ICU admission are usually well known, however, psychological and cognitive problems can also occur. These residual symptoms lead to long-term limitations in daily functioning and reduced quality of life.
In rehabilitation of corona patients after a stay in the ICU, muscle weakness and improving physical functioning is one of the main targets. This along with supporting respiratory and cardiovascular fitness. In addition, improving cognitive functioning, confidence in recovery, reducing anxiety and reducing the risk of complications is important.
Corona patients may have suffered permanent lung damage. The corona virus has caused pneumonia in many people and this sometimes causes scar tissue in the lungs (pulmonary fibrosis) these symptoms are called COLD (Corona Obstructive Lung Disease). This causes breathing to become more difficult and lung volume is reduced.
In addition, psychological trauma processing should not be underestimated. After an ICU stay, people often suffer from flashbacks, anxiety, depression and cognitive problems. This can sometimes be so severe that it develops into Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). About 1 in 5 former ICU patients have symptoms consistent with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in the first year after discharge. 1 in 3 patients experience symptoms such as; anxious feelings, depressive symptoms, forgetfulness, emotional instability, insomnia and flashbacks.
Rehabilitation Center Medifit offers a multidisciplinary approach because the problem must be addressed both physically and psychologically. This multidisciplinary approach is necessary because it usually involves complex problems. In addition to physical therapy, the input of occupational therapy, exercise therapy, cognitive therapy and psychotherapy under the supervision of a rehabilitation and pulmonologist is necessary. The treatment team consists of specialized physiotherapists, occupational therapists, psychologists, rehabilitation physicians and Dutch physicians such as a pulmonologist, general practitioner and cardiologist.
People can participate in the rehabilitation program on an outpatient or inpatient basis, depending on the indication. Rehabilitators can stay with their partner or companion within the rehabilitation center or in a luxury care apartment.
A rehabilitation course for people with Post intensive care syndrome (PICS) possibly in combination with COLD (Corona Obstructive Lung Disease), lasts from 4 to 8 weeks. Patients can participate 2 weeks after testing COVID-19 negative, however, one can also participate months after discharge from the hospital.
The individual interpretation of the rehabilitation program is determined by a collaboration between you and our Dutch pulmonologist, rehabilitation physician and the treatment team. At the intake, in addition to consultations with the rehabilitation doctor, pulmonologist and therapist, a number of tests are taken. Among others, the following tests are taken; ergo-spirometry, 6 Minute Walk Test, ECG, strength tests, x-rays, etc. Every week there is an evaluation consultation, after which the treatment team discusses and evaluates the progress of treatment goals. The program is constantly adapted to each patient’s personal situation.
Medifit is experienced in treating Dutch patients with PICS syndrome and lung patients (a.o. COPD, asthma). COLD is not the same as COPD, however, there are similarities with the treatment method. One of the reasons the COPD program is so successful in Spain has to do with the pure Mediterranean air. In obstructive lung diseases such as COLD and COPD, clean air has a positive effect.
Rehabilitation is reimbursed by the Dutch health insurance companies from the basic package if there is a medical indication for this. The reimbursement is only for the rehabilitation, any air travel is at your own expense. If you come by plane, you will be picked up from Alicante or Valencia airport. The stay, food and rehabilitation will be fully reimbursed by your health insurance company if there is an indication for clinical rehabilitation. We have contracts with most of the Dutch health insurers and can bill the treatments directly to them. This means you do not have to pay for the rehabilitation program yourself. For the insurances we do not have a contract with, we submit an application according to the Dutch standards and rates.
