Royal Free London (RFL) provides an outpatient-only diagnostic and management service for adults experiencing mild-to-moderate chronic fatigue symptoms, such as for those individuals where the following diagnoses are suspected:

• myalgic encephalopathy/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS)
• post-viral fatigue syndrome (PVFS).

Suitable patients will be invited to a service information session, which outlines the diagnostic process and therapy options available to them. Should patients wish to engage with the service, they will then be offered an initial assessment and diagnosis.

Subsequent therapy options include a group-based fatigue management programme or one-to-one therapy, which includes access to physiotherapy, psychology and peer support. The service also offers the co-development of care plans. 

RFL's fatigue management programmes are formulated on an Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT) and Compassion-Focused Therapy (CFT) approach, supported by other key interventions such as:

• peer support
• energy management
• communication skills
• sleep hygiene and advice
• diet and nutrition.

Please note: Urgent referrals are not usually seen immediately as, by definition, rapid deterioration is due to a cause other than ME/CFS. 

Eligibility Criteria

Inclusions

• aged 18+
• mild-to-moderate severity
• persistent fatigue symptoms for at least three months
• other pathology/causes for fatigue ruled out as recommended by NICE (see referral form blood test requirements for primary care).

Exclusions

• we are not commissioned for long-COVID referrals. This service does not have provision for patients experiencing fatigue symptoms as a result of long-COVID; patients experiencing fatigue-dominant long-COVID should be referred to the CNWL COVID-19 Rehabilitation Service via e: cnwl.covidrehabilitation@nhs.net

How to Refer

Locations

RFL Fatigue Service