For referrers

ME/CFS referral information

Due to increasing demand, this service now focuses on diagnostic assessment and early management for patients who have not yet received a diagnosis or appropriate initial guidance. Routine long-term specialist follow-up is not available for all patients with established ME/CFS.

Patient triage

Priority is given to patients who are under 20 years of age, have been unwell for less than approximately six months, and have not yet received a confirmed diagnosis or specialist assessment. Patients outside these criteria may be considered where there is significant diagnostic uncertainty or another compelling clinical reason.

Purpose of referral

Confirm or exclude ME/CFS
Identify alternative diagnoses where appropriate
Provide evidence-informed education
Develop an initial pacing and symptom-management plan

Following assessment, patients will usually be discharged back to their GP with a comprehensive management plan. Further specialist review may be arranged where clinically indicated.

GP involvement is required

The patient must have an ongoing relationship with a New Zealand GP. Consultations take place via Telehealth, which creates practical and regulatory limits on prescribing. The usual GP remains responsible for ongoing general medical care, implementation of recommendations where appropriate, and most repeat prescribing.

Required before referral

General physical examination since the start of illness
CBC/diff, electrolytes, calcium/phosphate, CRP, TSH, LFT, renal panel and CK
Iron studies, vitamin B12/folate and HbA1c
Rheumatoid factor/anti-CCP, coeliac screening and urinalysis
Further tests where clinically indicated
Patient email address

Incomplete referrals may be returned for further information.

Referral details

Email: refer@pinnaclesp.co.nz
EDI: pinsport
General enquiries: info@pinnaclesp.co.nz
Phone: 03 662 9810
Consultations take place via Telehealth