The DHSC Delivery Plan includes a commitment for NHS England to create a template service specification on the management of people with ME/CFS. Once finalised, this template will directly influence how NHS services are commissioned and delivered across England, making it a significant opportunity to improve care for everyone living with ME/CFS.
The ME Association's Healthcare for ME team, working alongside our Medical Adviser, is actively participating in the Health Services Subgroup convened by Forward-ME. This group is engaged in ongoing discussions with the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC) on the development of a national template service specification for ME/CFS.
At this stage, we are unable to share the contents of the draft specification, as it remains under development. However, we have contributed detailed feedback alongside charity representatives, clinicians, and people with lived experience. Our input has spanned a wide range of areas, including but not limited to clinical coding, medicines management, and the needs of those most severely affected. You can read about a previous meeting with the DHSC and NHS England to discuss progress on the preparation of a clinical care pathway here.
We will continue working with lived-experience advocates, clinical experts, and charitable organisations to push for the changes that people with ME/CFS need and deserve. The template remains under revision, and we are committed to engaging throughout this process to ensure that the final version reflects the realities of living with ME/CFS and addresses patients' needs.