The Division of Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine's UAB/COA Pediatric Cystic Fibrosis (CF) team has been providing training to CF teams in South America since 2014. The training program primarily focuses on benchmarking visits to demonstrate how multidisciplinary teams function, the use of evidence-based care, and quality improvement methodologies to improve processes and outcomes. The team at UAB has developed a training program that has been highly appreciated by the CF Foundation. As a result, the foundation has provided funding to UAB for training more mentor teams in the US through its International Mentor Training Initiative (IMTI). These newly trained teams are now providing mentorship in Mexico, Ecuador, Peru, and Jordan.

The UAB program, with support from the CF Foundation, has evolved into the International Cystic Fibrosis Training Network (ICFTN). This network's primary objective is to improve the quality of care, clinical outcomes, and life expectancy of CF patients in resource-limited areas of the world. The ICFTN employs an all-inclusive strategy that integrates training methodology, advanced data management solutions, and sustainable practices to achieve its goals. By doing so, the network aims to provide long-term assistance to CF patients worldwide.

In April, the UAB/COA CF team hosted benchmarking visits of teams from Cordoba, Argentina, and Santiago, Chile. During their week-long stay, these teams received didactic training on various CF-related topics, such as guidelines-based care, QI methodology, functioning as an interdisciplinary team, and partnering with patients and families. They also spent time observing the clinic to gain practical experience. Before leaving, the teams developed an action plan for continuing their work when they return home. This will help to strengthen the CF care infrastructure in their countries, while maintaining an active remote collaboration with UAB and the rest of the learning network.

To learn more about this work visit the team’s website https://cftrainingnetwork.org/