If you have been diagnosed with pulmonary fibrosis, you may be given a lot of information. At times, it can be overwhelming. But learning as much as you can about your condition and taking an active role in your care is vital. Becoming more informed can help you be less fearful, feel a greater sense of control and decide what treatment options may be best for you. Greater … [Read more...]

Let’s start with a brief introduction to DME.  Durable Medical Equipment includes a broad range of medical equipment such as oxygen concentrators and tanks, wheelchairs, CPAP machines and many others.  Under traditional Medicare, part B covers 80% of the cost of such equipment and the patient covers the remaining 20%.  If patients have a secondary insurance or “MediGap” … [Read more...]

Measuring how your IPF (Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis) is doing is a very important part of regular visits with your pulmonologist. Tests that have been shown to have value include pulmonary function tests (breathing tests), six minute walk tests, your oxygen saturation at rest and with exercise, and how you perceive your symptoms (what activities cause you to be short of … [Read more...]

We have received a variety of questions about pulmonary fibrosis that is not Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis (IPF). The terminology is quite confusing in this area of medicine. IPF is a very specific diagnosis that is only a small portion of the universe of pulmonary fibrosis. Most patients with pulmonary fibrosis have non-IPF pulmonary fibrosis. Many types of lung … [Read more...]

Knowledge is power!  We hope to spread the word about IPF to empower patients and caregivers and drive interest in treatment and research to find a cure for IPF.  We are participating in a national and international effort to raise awareness about Idiopathic Pulmonary Fibrosis. What is IPF? IPF is an as yet irreversible scarring process of the lungs.  The two cardinal symptoms … [Read more...]