Written question asked by Countess of Mar (Crossbench), in the House of Lords. It was answered by Lord Hunt of Kings Heath (Labour) on Wednesday, 16 November 2005.
Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
- Question
- Why the Department of Work and Pensions medical examiners continue to assess patients with a diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome/myalgic encephalomyelitis (CFS/ME) as if they are suffering a psychiatric illness when the Chief Medical Officer has accepted that the illness is an organic illness comparable to multiple sclerosis.
- Answer
-
The Department for Work and Pensions recognises a spectrum of conditions involving pain and fatigue, including chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) and myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME), as potentially disabling illnesses.CFS/ME can affect both physical and mental functioning including cognitive ability (for example, concentration, short-term memory and mood). The Chief Medical Adviser’s guidance to approved doctors recommends the completion of a mental health assessment whenever a condition affects mental functioning.
Secondary information
- Type
- Written question
- Reference
- 675 c146-7WA; 2107
- Session
- 2005-06
- Subjects
- Benefits rules ME/CFS Incapacity benefit Medical examinations Social security benefits
- Link
- View this Written question on www.publications.parliament.uk
Librarians' tools
- Timestamp
- 2013-11-25 07:12:15 +0000
- URI
- http://data.parliament.uk/pimsdata/Hansard/PARLIAMENTARY_QUESTION_1085727
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