Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation Launches Help Line for Oxygen Equipment

The Pulmonary Fibrosis Foundation (PFF) has launched its Oxygen Information Line to provide information and resources to help people using supplemental oxygen and their caregivers.

Using the line, people can get reliable advice about which oxygen delivery system to use, how to manage flow settings, and how to ensure safety.

The Oxygen Information Line, (844) -825-5733, is available Monday-Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. CST.

“Oxygen can provide a lifeline for people living with pulmonary fibrosis,” William T. Schmidt, PFF president and CEO, said in a press release. “Our new Oxygen Information Line will be staffed by trained representatives who will answer questions and make sure people understand how to access oxygen, how to use it safely, and what to do if they have a problem.”

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A survey found that more than half of users of supplemental oxygen encounter problems with the equipment, namely a lack of access to effective instructions and adequate portable systems.

The results of the survey “Patient Perceptions of the Adequacy of Supplemental Oxygen Therapy. Results of the American Thoracic Society Nursing Assembly Oxygen Working Group Survey,” were published in the journal Annals of the American Thoracic Society.

The PFF also provides a Quick Start Guide for Supplemental Oxygen and the Traveling with Supplemental Oxygen Guide, both available for download. Print versions of the guides in Chinese, Spanish, and Russian also are available. A new video on how to use supplemental oxygen can be found on the PFF’s YouTube Channel.

“Oxygen can help people maintain an active lifestyle while reducing breathlessness and stress on other organs,” said David Lederer, MD, PFF senior medical advisor for education and awareness.

Nonetheless, Lederer emphasized that “before entering into a contract with an oxygen company, patients should check with their healthcare provider to make sure the equipment offered by the supplier is right for them.”

PFF’s mission is to provide access to high-quality care and to lead research for a cure so that people with pulmonary fibrosis can live longer, healthier lives. The foundation collaborates with organizations, physicians, patients, and caregivers all over the world.