Current Petitions

The next petition is PE398, from Helen McDade, on the inadequacy of treatments and of support from social services for ME and chronic fatigue syndrome sufferers.The English independent working group's report was published on Friday 11 January. Members were provided with a copy of the Department of Health news release that announced that fact. The report concludes that health care professionals should recognise chronic fatigue syndrome or ME as a chronic illness and that early recognition, with an authoritative and positive diagnosis is the key to improving outcomes. The report also states that all ME patients need appropriate clinical evaluation and follow-up, and it highlights the role of general practitioners in co-ordinating referral to specialist care with support and understanding for those who suffer from the condition.The Health and Community Care Committee was keen to see the report before it commented on PE398. It is suggested that the Public Petitions Committee agree to refer the petition, with a copy of the Executive's response, to the Health and Community Care Committee so that it can consider the issues that are raised in the light of the report's conclusion. Is that agreed?Members indicated agreement.

It is good, but even better was the suggestion in the Executive's response that strategic needs assessment might take place through a Scottish needs assessment programme for chronic fatigue syndrome and ME. I am sure that the Health and Community Care Committee will be interested in that.