Support Network Established for ‘Often Misunderstood’ Health Conditions
30 Sep 2025
The RACGP has launched a new Specific Interests group to support GPs in managing complex chronic conditions such as long COVID and myalgic encephalomyelitis/chronic fatigue syndrome (ME/CFS). These conditions are often under-recognised, misunderstood, and require specialised approaches to care.
The Energy-Limiting and Post-Infection Conditions group aims to give GPs a forum to share knowledge, access practical tools, and strengthen patient care. Associate Professor Bernard Shiu, a leader in the diagnosis and treatment of these conditions, has been appointed as the group’s inaugural Chair.
“Energy-limiting and post-infection conditions include syndromes such as ME/CFS, long COVID, postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS), and fibromyalgia,” Associate Professor Shiu told newsGP. “These conditions share central disabling symptoms, including persistent fatigue, reduced functional capacity, and intolerance to exertion. Some patients’ symptoms are triggered or worsened by infections, which is why we include post-infection conditions in the group’s focus.”
Associate Professor Shiu has been at the forefront of long COVID care in Australia since 2022. He is Clinical Director of the Banksia Medical Centre and the Geelong Long COVID Clinic, co-authored national long COVID guidelines, and contributed to the development of updated clinical guidelines for ME/CFS. He has also delivered more than 30 national presentations to help GPs manage post-viral and energy-limiting conditions.
As Chair, Associate Professor Shiu will lead the group’s direction, promote collaboration, share evidence-based therapies, and ensure GPs have the support and resources needed to care for patients with these complex conditions.
“Many GPs feel under-resourced and isolated when managing conditions such as ME/CFS, long COVID, POTS, and fibromyalgia. This group will create a supportive community where GPs can learn, share knowledge, and access practical guidance,” he said.
The group also aims to amplify the GP voice in education, policy, and advocacy, ensuring frontline experiences shape how these conditions are understood and managed nationally.
The RACGP’s Energy-Limiting and Post-Infection Conditions Specific Interests group is now open to all members, with a Facebook page established to facilitate collaboration and information sharing.
Source: Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP), newsGP
