The reality of Medically Unexplained Symptoms (MUS)
Patients with MUS often feel disbelieved, dismissed, or referred inappropiately
Emotional wellbeing is frequently overlooked
GPs report frustration and powerlessness in these consultations
MUS are common — up to 45% of GP consultations and around 50% of secondary care cases still lack a clear diagnosis after 3 months.
In 2008, NHS costs for MUS were estimated at £2.89 billion, with wider economic losses of £14 billion from sickness absence — not to mention the personal cost to patients.
A New approach is needed
The current system often:
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Relies too heavily on tick-box processes
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Operates in clinical silos with poor cross-speciality communication
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Misses the opportunity to learn from those most affected
We believe its time too:
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Embrace diagnostic uncertainty as a strength, not a failure
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Empower patients with a voice
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Equip clinicians to go beyond rigid guidelines
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Facilitate exploration when standard routes fall short
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Recognise that the art of medicine matters just as much as science
Our focus
At the heart of our work is patient advocacy, ensuring that people:
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Are heard and respected
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Contribute to their own care
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Receive compassionate and thoughtful exploration of their symptoms
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Help guide the development of better systems for everyone
Some patients already arrive with well-researched and self-diagnosed conditions. They are often right. We need systems that are ready to listen, learn, and act.
The OMG patient
Many clinicians know the moment
Something isn't adding up....What am I overlooking
Rather than dismiss the unknown, we want to build a culture that welcomes curiosity, encourages deeper exploration, and puts humanity back at the centre of care.