NHS Norfolk is continuing negotiations to secure a consultant for the ME/CFS Service with a view to creating a multi-disciplinary team. A clinic will be opening for a day a week in Norwich on 20 October. The next clinic location in Norfolk is planned for Kings Lynn.
There is recognition that there is a lot of work to be done educating and supporting GP's.
NHS Suffolk have identified 2 locations for clinics, one in Stowmarket and one in Ipswich. The problem is identifying appropriately trained healthcare professionals.
Social care was raised and the possibility of providing an integrated service. NHS agreed to explore whether social workers can attend meetings to provide input. The issue of Personal Health Plans was raised and NHS Norfolk to advise further at the next meeting.
The Needs Assessment is in its early stages. One of the difficulties will be in obtaining accurate epidemiological data.
Concerns again raised about whether or not the ME/CFS Service refers to Lightning Process practitioners. NHS Gt Yarmouth & Waveney to check and report back. Also concern raised regarding a pain consultant at West Suffolk Hospital whose name is mentioned on the LP website.
The aim is to have the new service up and running and bedded in before the advent of GP Commissioning in April 2013.
Further details here.
