Limitations to providing adult cystic fibrosis care in Europe: Results of a care centre survey

Background There are a growing number of adults in Europe with a projected increase of 75% over the next decade. There is concern that provision of care will not be sufficient to meet needs. We aimed to establish the level of CF service throughout Europe. Methods An online survey designed by clinicians and patient representatives to explore level of service. Results Training opportunities for clinicians and resources (physical and manpower) to provide care to adults with CF are limited in Europe. Although specific adult CF care has been identified, teams continue to be supported by paediatric colleagues and many adults are still being admitted to paediatric wards. In some centres, service delivery, particularly infection control and access to some CF medication is insufficient and in many places poor personnel resources limits access to comprehensive multidisciplinary teams. Conclusions This survey shows an urgent need for the development of resources for adult CF care, in both physical space and appropriately trained clinicians.