Telemedicine and cystic fibrosis: Do we still need face-to-face clinics?

Dixon, E; Dick, K; Ollosson, S; Jones, D; Mattock, H; Bentley, S; Saunders, C; Matthews, J; Dobra, B; King, J; Edmondson, C; Davies, J C

There has been growing interest in telemedicine for cystic fibrosis over recent years based largely on convenience for patients and/or increasing the frequency of surveillance and early detection which, it is assumed, could improve treatment outcomes. During 2020, the covid-19 pandemic catalysed the pace of development of this field, as CF patients were presumed to be at high risk of infection. Most clinics adapted to digital platforms with provision of lung function monitoring and sample collection systems. Here, we present the views of multidisciplinary team members at a large paediatric CF centre on what has worked well and what requires further optimisation in the future. In response to the question posed, 'Do we still need face to face clinics?' our answer is 'Yes, but not every time, and not for everyone'.