High-dependency units (HDUs), also known as intermediate care units and step-down units, were established to provide a level of care between the general ward and the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) [1,2,3]. In the United Kingdom, this level of care is thought to be suitable for patients suffering from single organ failure, with the exception of those with respiratory failure requiring mechanical ventilation [1,2,3]. However, the indications for HDU admission vary regionally and even within institutions [1,2,3,4]. HDUs are believed to confer advantages in the management of postoperative, paediatric, cardiac, and respiratory syndromes, and HDU admission may reduce the need for unnecessary ICU admission [4,5,6]. As such, it has been argued that HDUs may be cost-saving and improve access to the ICU for patients who are truly dependent on critical care resources [6]. Furthermore, HDUs may facilitate earlier ICU discharge and reduce the likelihood of ICU readmission [7]. One study even suggested that HDUs may improve patient satisfaction [8]. Last, increased humanistic care in HDUs may help reduce the incidence of post-intensive care syndrome in patients who are otherwise at risk [9]. However, the role of HDUs in the management of patients with severe liver disease (SLD) has received limited attention [10]. The purpose of this letter is to describe the first HDU for SLD in China and showcase its performance using an example case.