Cystic Fibrosis (CF) clinic for adults

When to choose this service

This service is for adults who have cystic fibrosis and need ongoing assessment, treatment or support from a specialized care team.

How to access the clinic

• The clinic accepts pre-booked appointments only. Appointments are scheduled several months in advance because space is limited.
• We will tell you about your appointment four to six weeks before your visit. If you need to change your appointment, contact the clinic as early as possible. Some flexibility may be available.
• The clinic may arrange additional or annual tests outside your regular clinic visit. Whenever possible, these tests will take place at an Island Health facility near your home.

Clinic hours

• Clinics are held throughout the day on Wednesdays.
• Allow two to three hours for your appointment.

What to expect at your appointment

During your visit:

• A respirologist and available members of the CF care team will review your care
• We will collect a sputum sample
• You will complete a simple breathing test called spirometry
• You will stay in one examination room while members of the care team come to you
• If a team member is unavailable, the clinic coordinator will arrange another way to address your needs.

What to bring

• Bring your portable airway-clearance device to every appointment. This could include a PEP mask, Flutter device or another chest-clearing device.
• Your care team will review how you are using and caring for the device.

Virtual appointments

• Some patients who live outside Greater Victoria may be able to attend alternating appointments by video through Island Health Telehealth Services.
• The nurse coordinator arranges virtual appointments. Contact the clinic to find out whether a virtual appointment is suitable for you.

Preventing infections

People with cystic fibrosis can be more vulnerable to respiratory infections. The clinic follows infection-prevention practices recommended by Island Health and Cystic Fibrosis Canada.

During your visit:

• Clean your hands regularly
• Check in when you arrive
• Go directly to your assigned examination room
• Remain in your room while care team members come to you
• Follow any additional instructions from clinic staff
• There is no shared waiting room. Care team members also follow contact-isolation practices to reduce the risk of infection.

Getting help between appointments

• For non-urgent concerns related to cystic fibrosis, contact the office of an Adult CF Clinic respirologist during office hours. Calling in the morning is recommended.
• When you call:
  • Leave a phone number where the doctor can reach you
  • Try another CF doctor’s office if the first office is closed
  • Expect most calls to be returned the same day
• If you cannot reach a CF doctor, contact your family doctor, nurse practitioner, a walk-in clinic or your local emergency department. Tell them that you receive care through the Adult CF Clinic.

Staying in hospital

• A planned, non-emergency hospital admission is usually arranged within 24 to 48 hours after a bed is requested.
• Patients with cystic fibrosis are usually admitted to the Respiratory Care Unit on 8 North at Royal Jubilee Hospital. You will have a private room, and the CF team will support you during your stay.

Bring:

• Your airway-clearance device, such as a PEP mask or Flutter device
• Your pancreatic enzymes
• Your steam sterilizer, if you normally use one to clean your respiratory equipment

Your privacy

Your health information is confidential. Your doctor and other health-care providers will not discuss your condition with family members or friends unless you give permission.

Copies of medical notes related to your cystic fibrosis care will be sent to your primary care provider.