ME/CFS in General Practice: From invisible to visible.

Myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS) affects up to 1% of the Australian population; it is especially common post-infection. For example, an estimated 50% of long COVID patients meet the diagnostic criteria for ME/CFS.  

Despite its prevalence, many patients remain invisible within the medical system. They are frequently undiagnosed or experience significant delays in diagnosis, often resulting in disease progression, increased disability, and poorer long-term outcomes.

Although ME/CFS is often described as an “invisible illness,” patients present with recognisable signs, symptoms, and clinical patterns that tell a clear story when carefully assessed.

In this case-based learning activity, General Practitioners are guided through how to recognise, diagnose, and provide ongoing care for patients with ME/CFS, supporting clinicians to make these patients seen, heard, and clinically visible.

On completion of this module you will be able to: 

1. Recognise key information relevant to ME/CFS   
2. Use established criteria to diagnose ME/CFS and distinguish it from other common diagnoses
3. Implement safe symptom management strategies     
4. Identify effective communication strategies   

The content is structured for self-paced learning and should take 2 hours to complete. 

This case-based module has been developed for General Practitioners with no knowledge of ME/CFS, or who wish to revisit the steps to a diagnosis. Other health professionals will also benefit from learning about the foundations of diagnosis and management of ME/CFS.

RACGP activity ID 1375268

This activity has been CPD approved with RACGP for:

• 1 hour of Educational Activity
• 1 hour of Reviewing Performance

On completion, all participants will be automatically issued a certificate for your records.

RACGP participants: Please make sure you have included your RACGP membership number in your registration details.