New elearning session for Myalgic Encephalomyelitis or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS)

A second session of the Myalgic Encephalomyelitis or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) elearning programme is available offering guidance for community-based healthcare practitioners to effectively diagnose, manage, and support patients. 

This elearning programme has been developed in collaboration with patient groups and the Department of Health and Social Care and aims to enhance knowledge and support for individuals living with ME/CFS. It is available for free on the NHS Learning Hub for healthcare professionals, carers and anyone interested in increasing their understanding of ME/CFS. 

The programme aims to: 

• highlight the variability in patient experiences and the impact on individuals and their families 

• encourage the adoption of a multidisciplinary approach to patient care 

• highlight the importance of pacing, symptom management, and supportive networks 

The first session, ‘Introduction to ME/CFS’ is already available and provides an overview of the complex nature of ME/CFS suitable for all clinicians, MDT, service users, families, support providers. The session explains what ME/CFS is, discusses the potential causes and diagnostic challenges and provides an overview of possible management strategies. 

The third session will be published later in 2025 and will offer support to secondary care clinicians with a focus on the management of ME/CFS, treatment recommendations and pharmacological solutions. 

It is estimated that over 250,000 people in the UK are living with myalgic encephalomyelitis or chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). Despite these figures, there are still many misconceptions around ME/CFS, and the patients suffer from prolonged diagnosis and stigma 

For more information and to access the sessions, please visit the programme page.