MIMS Learning, which produces high quality CPD (continuing professional development) resources for Healthcare Professionals in primary care has now published a one-hour learning module on the new NICE clinical guideline for ME/CFS.
“Dr Toni Hazell summarises the 2021 NICE guideline for the diagnosis and management of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). The module outlines what’s new in the guidance, what to do differently in your practice and some areas of uncertainty and controversy.”
MIMS CPD Learning Module: NICE Guideline & ME/CFS
It covers all the key points in the new guideline regarding Symptoms, Diagnosis and Management, and opens by stating that ME/CFS:
“…is a complex, chronic, multi-system medical condition for which the pathophysiology is still being investigated and that symptoms can fluctuate. And that patients may have experienced prejudice, disbelief and stigma.”
And that health professionals should take into account the effect that this may have had on:
“…their ability to trust health and social care services; this has also been reported by healthcare professionals who have suffered with CFS as part of long COVID.”
The module also emphasises the importance of recognising post-exertional malaise and the removal of graded exercise therapy.
The module recommends that GPs:
“Search your computer system for all your patients with a coded diagnosis of CFS or ME.
“Are they all under the care of a specialist clinic? If not, should they be referred?
“Consider running a teaching session about this guidance, focusing on diagnosis, primary care management and a review of your local pathways for referral.“
I have written in to say that it is disappointing that the module only uses the term CFS – reflecting the fact that we still have a long way to go when it comes to persuading the medical profession to abandon this name.
Overall, this CPD module about the new NICE Guideline is well worth recommending to your GP – in addition to the excellent Study PRN CPD module that Dr Nina Muirhead has already produced about ME/CFS.
MIMS Learning is for Healthcare Professionals and requires a subscription to access. Subscriptions cost from £14.99 a month – annual plans are also available.
Dr Charles Shepherd,
Trustee and Hon. Medical Adviser to the ME Association.
Member of the 2018-2021 NICE Guideline Committee.
Member of the 2002 Independent Working Group on ME/CFS.
