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Written question asked by Tom Morrison (Liberal Democrat) on Thursday, 25 June 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Monday, 29 June 2026. It was answered by Sharon Hodgson (Labour) on Monday, 6 July 2026 on behalf of the Department of Health and Social Care.

ME/CFS: Health Services

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Health and Social Care, what guidance his Department provides to (a) hospitals, (b) community services and (c) ICBs on the care and management of people with severe and very severe ME/CFS; and what steps his Department is taking to monitor compliance with this guidance.

Answer

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) has developed guidance on the diagnosis and management of myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS), which includes care for people with severe or very severe ME/CFS.

NICE guidelines are evidence-based, informed by clinical expertise, and represent best practice. Although NICE guidelines are not mandatory, healthcare professionals are expected to take them fully into account.

The Department is developing a template service specification for mild, moderate, and severe ME/CFS. The template is being developed in consultation with ME/CFS specialists, clinicians, NHS England, people with lived experience, and charity representatives. The template aims to support service providers and commissioners to provide services that meet the needs of their local population.

NHS England has developed an e-learning programme in line with NICE guidelines. The e-learning is comprised of four modules, including on severe ME/CFS, with the aim of supporting staff to be able to provide better care and improve patient outcomes.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
13299
Session
2026-27
Subjects
ME/CFS Health services
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk