Health and Wellbeing Programs
Exercise is an integral part of the regular care regime for people with CF. An active lifestyle is a valuable way of helping to keep airways clear of mucus, build bone density and increase strength. However, participating in some types of exercise or sports can be expensive. CFT recognises this and provides a range of programs to cater for sports-related activities and other well-being programs to enhance emotional well-being.
If you have a specific request but are unsure which program it would fall under, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the CFT office by email here, and we will be happy to chat about your requirements.
CF Sports
CFT will pay up to $300 per member annually towards registration fees for recognised sporting activities.
These activities could be organised team sports or individual pursuits. These may include (but are not limited to) athletics, gymnastics, horse riding, basketball, soccer, netball, football or swimming lessons.
This subsidy is available to both children and adults with CF.
CF Healthy You
CFT recognises that many services and activities can contribute to the physical and emotional well-being of people with CF. So we have developed a financial support program through subsidies for various items or activities that encourage a more physically active community and improve mental health.
Under this program, requests will be assessed on a case-by-case basis, but the sorts of things may include funding for:
• Bookshop vouchers;
• Sports clothing (e.g. gym shoes, sports uniforms or other sporting clothing)
• Life or career coaching
• Equine therapy
• Remedial massage
• Reflexology
• Meditation courses
• Pilates or yoga classes
Gym Memberships
CFT understands that the annual gym membership cost can put this option out of reach for many people with CF due to the many expenses associated with the condition.
Members can apply for a subsidy of $750 per year towards their gym membership. In particular circumstances, we will consider gym-type programs in an alternative facility.
These will be considered on a case-by-case basis.
Fitness Equipment
We recognise that not everyone has convenient access to a gym or that you may not feel comfortable in a gym environment. But we also appreciate that buying equipment to maintain your fitness can be expensive.
CFT will pay up to $750 per eligible member for a piece of fitness equipment for you to use in your home. This could be a treadmill, exercise bike, outdoor trampoline or bicycle.
Please note that in a calendar year, you are not able to claim the gym membership subsidy as well as a claim for a piece of fitness equipment.
Counselling
Living with CF can be emotionally draining – for both the person who has it and their loved ones. Talking to someone about it can help you work through the many feelings you may be experiencing.
Our members can access private and confidential counselling from an experienced and qualified psychologist of their choice at no cost.
This service is offered to anyone with CF and their immediate family, e.g. parents, partners, siblings, and children.
Under this program, CFT will pay the gap payment between the cost of your Psychologist and the Medicare rebate.
Please note that to access a Medicare rebate, you must get a Mental Health Care Plan and referral from a medical professional such as your GP. If, for any reason, you are unable to do this, please get in touch with our office to chat about how we may still be able to assist you.