Incorporating patient and caregiver feedback into lung transplant referral guidelines for individuals with cystic fibrosis-Preliminary findings from a novel paradigm.

Background: Lung transplantation is a common therapeutic option for individuals with cystic fibrosis (CF) and advanced lung disease, yet many individuals with CF are not appropriately referred for evaluation. The present study sought to enhance CF transplant referral guidelines by integrating patient-centered input to identify possible psychosocial barriers contributing to suboptimal referral for appropriate CF transplant candidates.

Methods: As a component of developing the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CFF) Lung Transplant Referral Consensus Guidelines, we convened a focus group of lung transplant recipients with CF and two spouses of CF recipients.

Lung transplant referral for individuals with cystic fibrosis: Cystic Fibrosis Foundation consensus guidelines.

Objective: Provide recommendations to the cystic fibrosis (CF) community to facilitate timely referral for lung transplantation for individuals with CF.

Methods: The CF Foundation organized a multidisciplinary committee to develop CF Lung Transplant Referral Consensus Guidelines. Three workgroups were formed: timing for transplant referral; modifiable barriers to transplant; and transition to transplant care.