This Forward ME briefing paper on the clinical assessment of people with very severe ME/CFS was prepared for the DHSC and NHS England in relation to an action point in the DHSC Delivery Plan to explore the creation of a national specialist referral service for people with very severe ME/CFS who require hospital admission.
The briefing paper has been well received by the DHSC.
However, we are very disappointed with the lack of progress on this action point and recent ministerial statements indicate that implementation has now been delayed until the merger of NHS England into the DHSC has been completed in April 2027.
This briefing paper can also be used by people with very severe ME/CFS and their carers when they have to deal with health professionals and hospital services.
Feedback is welcome – as this is intended to be a living document that can be updated.
I would like to thank all the clinical, charity and patient colleagues who assisted in the preparation of this briefing paper.
Dr Charles Shepherd
July 24 2026
Click the button below to read this briefing paper
