Fibromyalgia report

This report was produced by Healthwatch Derbyshire to highlight the thoughts of people diagnosed with fibromyalgia.

Two engagement events were held to obtain their comments.

Participants at the engagement sessions were not asked specific questions, but instead were invited to talk more generally about their experiences of getting a diagnosis of their condition, support from health professionals, accessing treatment and accessing other forms of support, including support groups.

Key findings

Lack of awareness of fibromyalgia among some health professionals

Dignity and respect is not always given to patients

Fibromyalgia diagnosiso

No clear pathway

Difficulties in accessing rheumatologists

Lack of on-going support from rheumatologists

Lack of consistency and choice across services

Difficulties in accessing appropriate medication to meet people's needs

Mental health is often detrimentally effected by fibromyalgia

Lack of support for carers

There is a financial impacton people with fibromyalgia as they may be unable to work full time. Often their partners are also unable to work full time as they are a carer.

Recommendations were made to service providers and responses were received from Derbyshire Community Health Service NHS Foundation Trust and Royal Derby Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.