The Suffolk and North East Essex Myalgic Encephalomyelitis, Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and Long COVID Service is for people who live in Suffolk (excluding Waveney) and north east Essex.
This service is provided by Suffolk GP Federation.
People can be referred into the service by their GP if they have had all of the following four symptoms for more than six weeks:
- Post exertional malaise – a significant worsening of symptoms following even a small amount of physical or mental activity
- Debilitating fatigue – an overwhelming feeling of tiredness that is not relieved by sleep or rest
- Sleep dysfunction – difficulty sleeping or sleep which does not leave you feeling refreshed
- Cognitive dysfunction – difficulty concentrating, memory problems and confusion
This specialist service supports people aged 16 and over who are diagnosed with – or suspected to have – ME, CFS or Long COVID. Young people moving from children’s services into adult care can also be referred if they are registered with a GP in the local area.
Support from this service is provided for a maximum of nine months, during which patients are supported to develop techniques to help them manage their symptoms long-term.
For patients with mild and moderate symptoms, if their symptoms worsen, they may contact the service for follow-up support during the next 12 months. Patients with very severe symptoms receive continuing care which is subject to annual reviews.
How the service supports you
You will be supported by a multidisciplinary team — this means doctors, nurses, therapists, and other health professionals working together. You won’t need lots of separate referrals. Your care will be led by specialists with expertise in ME, CFS and Long COVID. A patient advocate will help guide you through the service and act as your main point of contact.
Care and support tailored to your symptoms
Your care plan is based on your individual needs. Support may include help with:
- Symptom management, including medicines management
- Information and support needs
- Nutritional and hydration needs
- Support for activities of daily living
- Mobility and daily living aids and adaptions to increase or maintain independence
- Education, training or employment support needs, including reasonable adjustments for work and education
- Self-management strategies including energy management (symptom contingent pacing)
- Physical functioning and mobility
- Guidance on managing flare ups and relapses
Other support may include:
- Connect you with the right services, professionals, and community resources
- Support with welfare benefits, including providing the medical evidence needed for applications
Other conditions will first be excluded by your GP or another health professional involved in your care. This means you will need to have some routine investigations – usually blood tests – before first coming into the service.
More information
Please visit the Suffolk GP Federation website for more information on the service and how it can support you. The website also has links to additional resources and information to help manage your symptoms.
Live in Waveney?
Please visit our dedicated page for services in Norfolk and Waveney.
