CF Care Teams
A CF Care Team can be an important resource. The members of a CF Care Team all work to help make sure that the CF patient is feeling as good or staying as healthy as possible. They will be a source of support in your management of CF. Find out who is on a CF Care Team, why you should have one, and where to get one below. CF Living also has Caregiver Discussion Guides you can download for kids under 17, and another one that can be used for people over 18. Remember to speak with your current doctor about any medical changes, as well.
Who is on a CF Care Team?
A CF Care Team is a group of CF All Stars. A team might include special doctors; people that can help you eat right; people that know a lot about programs that can help you; and more.
Here are some people you might have on you CF Care Team:
Doctor – Your doctor will do exams, make sure you have the right medicine, and take care of any tests you need
Nurse – A nurse works closely with your whole team to make sure everyone is working together. A nurse might also help you get ready for any CF work you have to do at home, like intravenous (IV) antibiotic therapy. IV therapy means that a liquid medicine is put directly into your veins
Dietitian – A dietitian will make you a special plan to make sure you get the right amount of food. Your dietitian can also help you with vitamins or supplements you might need
Social worker – A social worker can help you find out about programs that may help you pay for CF things, or programs that help you learn how to feel better about CF
Physiotherapist – A physiotherapist can teach you how to clear out some mucus and take care of equipment. They can also talk to you about exercise
Respiratory therapist – A respiratory therapist will test your how your lungs work and make sure you get the right amount of oxygen
Many CF Centers have an annual patient education day. These days are an opportunity to ask questions and talk to other patients and caregivers. Ask your CF Care Team when your CF Center has its patient education day.
Why should I have a CF Care Team?
There are many benefits to seeing a CF Care Team instead of individual specialists. These benefits include the collaboration among CF Care Team members; the team’s commitment to caring for you for the long term; and the creation of a single point of contact when you have questions.
Where can I find a CF Care Team?
The Cystic Fibrosis Foundation is a great place to learn more about CF Care Centers, and find one in your state, but you should talk to your current physician about recommendations as well.
