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What to Expect at a CF Clinic Visit

Our Pledge to You

In all that we do, we promise to:

  • Treat children and adults with CF and their families as partners in care through timely and open communication;
  • Provide care that is respectful of patient’s needs, preferences and values;
  • Assure that all individuals with CF receive appropriate treatment regardless of race, religion, education or insurance coverage;
  • Protect the privacy of all patients and families

Clinic Visits

Each CF patient is scheduled for a visit at least every 2-3 months, and more often if needed. For each appointment, please bring your insurance information and a form of ID (such as a driver's license). We recommend that you bring a few activities for yourself or your child such as magazines, books, or a small toy. We do not have shared books or toys in our clinic due to infection control concerns.

At each visit, please expect to see most of the following team members:

  • Pulmonary function testing (for children 5 and over) and a review of airway clearance, nebulized medications, and equipment with a respiratory therapist
  • Review of medications and education sessions with our pharmacist and/or nurses who specialize in CF
  • Examination of patient by physician and review of care plan, medications, and goals
  • Nutritional evaluation and assessments with our dietitian
  • Access to a physical therapist who supports fitness and strength
  • Access to a social worker who specializes in care of families managing CF
  • Access to a certified teacher who specializes in advocating for patients with CF in the educational system
  • Access to a research coordinator who keeps current on CF research news and will regularly review your or your child’s qualifications for ongoing studies

Once a year, we'll perform a comprehensive health evaluation including additional tests to monitor vitamin levels, liver function, and overall health.

After each visit, you'll be given an after-visit summary with our findings and recommendations.

Infection Control

Our center adheres to the infection control guidelines established by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. To control infection, we require you to wear a mask while in the clinic waiting room. We also ask that you keep at least 6 ft. of distance between you and other patients.

Our clinic staff wears a new gown and gloves for each patient visit. Any staff member who has close contact with you, such as a doctor or respiratory therapist, will wear a mask. Your caregiver must wash their hands thoroughly before and after taking care of you or your family member. Please feel free to ask your caregiver when they last washed their hands. Staff use antimicrobial wipes to clean rooms between each patient. 

You must wear a mask each time you go to the hospital for any labs, medical imaging, or procedure. If you are admitted to the hospital, you will be placed in reverse isolation in accordance with St. Luke’s infection control policy. This means that everyone who enters your room will wear a yellow isolation gown, mask, and gloves for your protection and your caregiver’s protection.