Working with your Doctor

Building a trusting relationship with your doctor is an important part of any illness management plan. This is especially the case when you have a complex and long-term illness like Myalgic Encephalomyelitis /Chronic Fatigue Syndrome and may also have other comorbidities. 

ME/CFS can be a challenging illness for doctors. They may not have received any training in ME/CFS, nor be aware of the current clinical guidance. Also, ME/CFS can present differently in each person and there are limited treatments available. This situation can lead to frustration for both the doctor and the patient. 

An informed GP with a good understanding of your situation, may be able to refer you to other health services and can provide medical evidence for a range of financial supports from Work and Income and information for employers. 

We have put together some tips that may help you to partner with your doctor, to share the lived experience, and to ensure that the doctor is aware of current and emerging evidence-informed practice.