Adult Cystic Fibrosis Program

The Northwestern Medicine Adult Cystic Fibrosis Program at Northwestern Memorial Hospital combines leading clinical practice with groundbreaking research in the diagnosis and treatment of all types of severe lung disease, including Cystic fibrosis. We were awarded the Quality Care Awards by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, which recognizes accredited centers that continuously demonstrate a commitment to improving the quality of care that they provide to patients with cystic fibrosis. We are the only Therapeutic Development Network in the state of Illinois, which reflects our commitment to clinical research.

Our specialists aim to enable patients to effectively manage their lung disease and improve the quality of their lives.

Our program also offers active clinical trials that bring new treatments and procedures to light.

All adult patients are admitted to the cystic fibrosis inpatient unit at Northwestern Memorial Hospital, which is fully staffed by dedicated pulmonologists, advanced practice nurses and social workers, and permits family members to visit 24 hours a day.

Our specialists are consulted regularly for management of bronchiectasis and atypical presentations of cystic fibrosis (CF). The core CF team meets weekly to discuss upcoming and recently seen outpatients, patients on home IV antibiotics, inpatients, quality improvement, research and programmatic issues. They also meet with the full pediatric team regularly to discuss transition and other center issues, and screen charts in advance of patients 1st visit to streamline patient visits and provide quality care.

Open communication and cooperation with referring physicians is a critical component of achieving high-quality care and minimizing the challenges that come with treating complex lung disorders.