What is the UNSW Fatigue Clinic Program?
The UNSW Fatigue Clinic Program is a structured management program specifically designed for individuals suffering from chronic fatigue conditions including chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), post-cancer fatigue (PCF), post-viral fatigue syndrome (PVFS), or post-infective fatigue syndrome (PIFS). The Program is run by a team consisting of an exercise physiologist (EP) and a clinical psychologist (CP).
Patients consult with both healthcare professionals at regular intervals over a period of 18 weeks. Patients are provided with physical and psychological strategies to assist with self-management of fatigue and related symptoms, including treatment elements known as cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT), cognitive exercise therapy (CET) and graded exercise therapy (GET).
Are CBT / GET effective and safe?
Although some controversy surrounds the use of these treatments amongst the public, there are over 20 randomised controlled trials conducted by independent researchers across the globe examining the effect of GET or CBT. Generally, there are beneficial effects of the treatments and little or no evidence of harm, provided that the key elements of the treatment such as GET are individually prescribed and carefully monitored. Systematic reviews of all of these trials (known as a 'meta-analysis' - the highest standard of evidence that exists in medicine) have also concluded that these treatments provide some benefit to people with chronic fatigue states with no significant evidence of harm. Importantly, it is clear from these studies that CBT and/or GET do not provide a cure for chronic fatigue conditions. They are essentially a practical approach to managing symptoms and improving day-to-day capacity - in the absence of a cure.
When does the UNSW Fatigue Clinic operate?
The Clinic operates on Thursday and Friday only. Patients attend the Clinic eight times during the 18-week program. These visits are fortnightly until consultation six, then one month apart for consultations seven and eight. Each consultation is 45-60 minutes, but some weeks the EP and CP visits are back-to-back consults, so the time at the Clinic on those days is 90-120 minutes.
It is ideal if all appointments happen face-to-face, however for those who live a significant distance away, or whose illness is more disabling, some of the appointments may be completed by video link. Please discuss this with Clinic staff if you don’t think you can attend in person prior to confirming your appointment schedule.
Where is the UNSW Fatigue Clinic located?
The UNSW Fatigue Clinic is located at 32 Botany Street, Randwick, NSW 2031
Is there parking at the Clinic?
There are 2 parking spaces available for patients on a reservation basis. If you require parking, please let the Clinic staff know when confirming your appointment.