We are pleased to have been chosen as one of the eleven organisations in the Centre for Community-Driven Research's (CC-DR) pilot project Patient Pathways Program (Telehealth Nurse Case Management). 

The program aims to:

• evaluate whether telehealth nursing consultations are an effective support tool for people who have or who are affected by ME/CFS
• inform and advocate for programs and systems change using the information gathered to improve the quality of life for people who are affected by ME/CFS

Please note that we only provide this service to people living in Australia. The consultation will not provide direct advice on clinical or medical treatments. Consultations are currently provided free of charge. 

Purpose of the consultation

The Telehealth Nurse Service consultations are conducted with a registered nurse over the phone.  

The consultation will cover:

• medical history
• personal history
• other relevant information relating to your treatments and general quality of life

What you can expect from your initial Telehealth Nurse Consultation

• the call will last 20-30 minutes, but can be shorter to work within your energy limit  
• the Nurse will obtain a brief medical history and if appropriate provide you with resources or advice that allows you to continue your health journey  
• the Nurse will talk with you about the Telehealth Nurse Program and you will decide together if you may benefit from further consultation  
• if required the Nurse will discuss consent and help you to book a follow up call 

Topics that may be discussed during the consultation

• What is ME/CFS  and diagnosis   
• ME/CFS symptoms and  post-exertional malaise (PEM)  
• Working with your  healthcare team  and  tips  on  maximising  your  GP  consultations   
• Pacing (energy management)  
• Disability Support Pension (DSP)  
• National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS)  
• Advanced Care Directives   

Delivery of the service

The Emerge Australia Telehealth Nursing  Service  is committed to  continue to evaluate the needs of the ME/CFS community and to build  a  greater  pool of  resources.  

The Telehealth Nurse provides a case management service only. If you need medical advice, please contact your doctor.  

You can ask for the consultations to be done within your energy envelope, with a full consultation lasting up to 50 minutes. Many people split this into shorter sessions and this can be arranged with the nurse during your initial connection with the service. 

The service has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from patients and carers, who report that they feel more empowered during their medical consultations, and who have had success in obtaining services that improve their quality of life.

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