Kent & Medway Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) and Long Covid

Description

NHS Kent & Medway Integrated Care Board have undertaken a Provider Selection Regime (PSR) Competitive Process for a Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) and Long Covid Service in Kent and Medway. The contract duration will be for an initial period of 3 years with an option to extend for up to a further 2 years as required. Lot 1: NHS Kent & Medway Integrated Care Board have undertaken a Provider Selection Regime (PSR) Competitive Process for a Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) and Long Covid Service in Kent and Medway. The contract duration will be for an initial period of 3 years with an option to extend for up to a further 2 years as required.<br/><br/>To provide an integrated specialist service for adults (and transitioning young people) with suspected or diagnosed ME/CFS and/or Long Covid across Kent and Medway.<br/><br/>Key Features of the Service:<br/>• Early diagnosis and personalised care planning<br/>• Multidisciplinary team (MDT) approach including medical, nursing, AHPs, and care coordinators<br/>• Virtual and in-person support options<br/>• Integration with primary care, community services, and voluntary sector<br/>• Support for self-management, rehabilitation, and return to work/education<br/>• Dedicated pathways for severely affected patients, including home-based care<br/>• Transition support for young people moving from paediatric to adult services<br/><br/>To provide full end to end pathway for patients with Long Covid & Chronic Fatigue. It includes diagnostics, treatment, rehabilitation and recovery support and delivery of Myalgic Encephalomyelitis/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME/CFS) and Long Covid to meet the clinic specification in the recently revised national guide for post-COVID syndrome assessment clinics. To support serious debilitating conditions that can follow any type of viral infection. Both conditions have key symptoms in common and there may be similar level of functional impairment in in both. However, there are some important differences that distinguish some people with Long Covid from those with ME/CFS.<br/><br/>This contract relates to an existing service with the intention to award being made to a new provider.<br/><br/>The contract will commence September 2026 for 3 years with the Commissioner having the option<br/>to extend the Contract for a further 2 years.