Relocating within Canada can present special
challenges for people with CF in terms of available health resources and
support networks. Here are a few questions to ask yourself to help you plan,
make good choices, and have a successful move.
Are you planning to work? Do you have a job to go to? Have you looked into
the job market? Does your employer have a benefits package? What does it cover?
If you are unable to work how do you plan to support yourself? Is there a
provincial program to assist you financially?
Do you have a support system of friends and family?
Where is the closest CF Clinic? As each clinic in Canada is slightly
different, contact your local clinic—or the clinic in the area you're planning
to relocate to—to discuss how the clinic runs.
What is the drug coverage in the province? Are any medications covered
through the clinic? What about provincial plans or special authorization? If
there is no plan, can you obtain coverage in another way? Is there a wait time
to get on the program? (Just in case, you should have a 3-month supply of
medications with you when you move).
Are there any programs or assistance to obtain nutritional supplements?
Is there any assistance available to obtain equipment such as the Flutter®
device, PEP device, postural drainage boards, percussors, etc?
If you need intravenous antibiotics, will you be admitted to hospital or
will you do home IV's? How is it arranged and who pays for it?
Getting detailed answers to these questions can help make the transition to a
new place easier for you and those close to you. For details about services and
resources available within Canada, you may find the Canadian Cystic Fibrosis
Foundation "Services & Resources Manual" helpful. It is available
for download on the CCFF web site at this address:
www.cysticfibrosis.ca/page.asp?id=203
