Standards of Cystic Fibrosis Care Guidelines launched – a first for Australia

Australians living with the life-threatening condition, Cystic Fibrosis (CF), have reason to celebrate today with the launch of the Standards of Cystic Fibrosis Care Guidelines.

The launch of the Standards of Cystic Fibrosis Care Guidelines is a strong indication of further improvements in the care of those people living with this debilitating condition, whether they are located in remote regional areas or busy cities or suburbs throughout Australia.

The Hon Russell Broadbent MP, Federal Member for McMillan, Victoria, this morning officially launched the consensus document before hundreds of medical experts in attendance at the Thoracic Society (TSANZ) Scientific Meeting at the Melbourne Convention Centre.

Mr Broadbent said the official launch of the Standards of Cystic Fibrosis Care Guidelines was a significant step forward in CF care in all corners of Australia.

Cystic Fibrosis Australia’s Chief Executive Officer Terry Stewart said he believed the project was a major milestone in the improved care of CF patients in Australia.

“Cystic Fibrosis is a genetic recessive disease that affects babies, children and young adults. It affects the lungs and digestive system and eventually threatens life itself,” Mr Stewart said.

The Standards of Cystic Fibrosis Care Guidelines represent the first comprehensive description of CF care guidelines to be prepared in Australia. The creation of this clinical document spanned a two- year period and involved a 17 person committee including clinicians, adults with CF, representatives from CF organisations across Australia, scientists and allied health specialists. Previously, clinicians in Australia relied on European and United States standards of care when treating CF patients. These standards were not designed to take account of the demographics and geography of this country.

Mr Stewart said the Australian Standards of CF Care were specifically tailored to meet the needs of those with CF living in Australia.

Endorsed by the TSANZ and the Royal College of Physicians, these standards will serve as a benchmark in care for CF Clinics leading to further improvements in outcomes for those in Australia living with CF.

“The Standards of Cystic Fibrosis Care also represent a commitment to ongoing improvement. The document will be reviewed, updated and re-published within 5 years or sooner if required,” he said.

AAP