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CHRONIC FATIGUE SYNDROME |
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For Health Care ProfessionalsChronic fatigue syndrome, or CFS, is a complex and often debilitating illness that affects at least one million Americans. It can be challenging to diagnose and treat, creating a cycle of frustration for both patients and health care professionals. Whether you’re a physician, nurse practitioner, physician assistant or other health care professional, you can help patients with CFS. You can break the cycle of frustration and help your CFS patients manage symptoms, improve function and improve quality of life. The Canadian Clinical Case Definition for ME/CFS provides helpful descriptions of characteristic CFS symptoms, differential diagnosis and management. Resources for Medical Professionals We have developed a variety of materials to reflect the various needs of clinicians working in diverse practice settings. These materials are described below. 
CFS Toolkit This easy-to-use CFS Toolkit (also available on the CDC's CFS Website ) includes the most up-to-date information on CFS clinical care. In less than 30 minutes, health care professionals can review the best practices related to diagnosing and managing CFS. A diagnostic algorithm for CFS is included in the toolkit. Topics include: Basic CFS Overview, Diagnosing CFS, Managing Supportive Care, Managing Symptoms, Managing Activity and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy. Download the 12 page kit below using Adobe Acrobat software. 
Recognition and Management of CFS This quick-reference brochure provides an overview of diagnosis and management, including an illustrated diagnostic algorithm. Click here for a downloadable copy.CFS Clinical Care Resources The CFIDS Association publishes evidence-based information on clinical care, including pharmacologic and nonpharmacologic treatment interventions, activity management, supportive care and other topics of interest to clinicians and researchers. Sample articles of interest:
If you’re a health care professional and wish to receive our clinician packet, or subscribe to our newsletter for clinicians, send an e-mail to gesmith@cfids.org subject line: clinician packet. |
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