#United States #Chicago #Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation #Care Center Network #Interstitial Lung Disease

Expansion of Care Services by the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation

The Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation (PFF) has proudly announced a significant expansion of its Care Center Network, now encompassing 96 sites across 40 states. This initiative marks the first expansion since 2023, aiming to enhance access to specialized care for individuals suffering from pulmonary fibrosis (PF) and interstitial lung disease (ILD).

Context and Importance of the Expansion

With over 250,000 Americans living with pulmonary fibrosis, the need for accessible and expert lung care has never been more pressing. The PFF's Care Center Network is strategically designed to provide comprehensive, multidisciplinary care tailored to the unique needs of these patients. As highlighted by Sonye Danoff, the Senior Medical Advisor for the PFF Care Center Network, this expansion is pivotal in transforming how care is delivered for those facing life-threatening lung diseases.

The Care Center Network is integral to the PFF’s strategic vision, aiming to facilitate better collaboration between patients and healthcare providers. It emphasizes the importance of having specialized expertise readily available in communities across the nation, thus ensuring patients receive the best possible care without the burden of long-distance travel.

New Care Center Designations

As part of this recent expansion, 11 additional medical centers have been designated as PFF Care Centers. These newly appointed sites include:

• - Intermountain Health Interstitial Lung Disease Clinic - Salt Lake City, Utah
• - Louisiana State University (LSU) Multidisciplinary ILD Program - New Orleans, Louisiana
• - Mayo Clinic in Arizona - Phoenix and Scottsdale, Arizona
• - Mayo Clinic Florida - Jacksonville, Florida
• - Montefiore's Advanced Pulmonary Failure and Lung Transplant Program - New York, New York
• - Mount Sinai Respiratory Institute - New York, New York
• - Ochsner Advanced Lung Disease Clinic - Kenner, Louisiana
• - St. Luke's University Health Network - Bethlehem, Pennsylvania (transitioning from a Clinical Associate to a Care Center)
• - The Queen's Health Systems - Honolulu, Hawaii (joining as a Clinical Associate site with UCSF as their Care Center partner)
• - University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center Interstitial Lung Diseases Program - Cleveland, Ohio
• - University of Mississippi Medical Center Interstitial Lung Disease Program - Jackson, Mississippi

Rigorous Standards for Care Centers

Each center within the PFF Care Center Network adheres to strict criteria established with guidance from both ILD specialists and patient representatives. The network comprises a multidisciplinary team that includes experts from various medical fields such as pulmonary medicine, rheumatology, radiology, and pathology, ensuring a holistic approach to patient care. Beyond specialized treatment, these centers also actively engage the local PF community, offering support groups, educational activities, and important resources tailored for patients and their families.

For patients who reside far from designated Care Centers, Clinical Associate members of the network are available to extend care. These members work closely with PFF Care Centers to provide resources and referrals when appropriate, maintaining a high standard of care even in remote areas.

Long-Term Vision for Patient Care

The expansion of the Care Center Network is a key component of the PFF's strategic plan known as The PFF is ME. This initiative envisions a future where Care Centers not only assist patients but also support community providers by improving communication and resource sharing. The long-term aim is an extensive regional growth strategy that will enhance patient support across the nation.

With this latest expansion, the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation is reinforcing its commitment to improving the lives of those affected by pulmonary fibrosis and interstitial lung disease, ensuring they have access to the comprehensive care they deserve, closer to home. For more information on this expansion or to find a Care Center, visit the Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation’s website or contact them directly at 844-TalkPFF.