Germany’s ME/CFS patients fight for affordable off-label treatments
Around 650,000 people in Germany are now living with ME/CFS after contracting a viral infection. Many of these patients, along with those suffering from Long Covid, struggle to afford essential treatments. A leading medical figure has now called for urgent changes to improve their access to care. Markus Beier, head of Germany’s Association of Office-Based Physicians, has demanded that health insurers and authorities cover the cost of off-label medications for ME/CFS patients. Currently, those affected often pay for these drugs themselves, even when they show potential benefits. Experts believe certain treatments, though originally approved for other conditions, could help manage ME/CFS symptoms. If implemented, these changes could ease the financial burden on thousands of patients. Free access to off-label drugs and reduced paperwork would provide much-needed relief. The outcome depends on how quickly authorities respond to Beier’s proposals.
