In September 2025 we held an online Hospital Transition Workshop with health professionals from PCH and SCGH. These were some of the questions asked throughout the session.
When will transition from PCH to SCGH usually happen?
The transition process starts when you’re a teenager, to get you ready for transfer which happens when you finish year 12. It also depends on your readiness to transfer, some may transfer earlier, and others may transfer later.
How does the pharmacy system work, is it different from PCH?
SCGH has 24/7 lockers for medication so you can collect it flexibly at a time that works for you. Otherwise, the process is the same as at PCH.
What’s available for downtime while waiting (e.g.TV, Wi-Fi)?
At the moment there’s no free Wi-Fi at SCGH (an alternative option may be coming), but there is paid TV available.
Can my boyfriend/girlfriend, partner, mum/dad, other family member, or friend come with me to appointments?
Yes, definitely. You’re always welcome to bring a support person with you.
Are there restrictions on visitors in the adult hospital (e.g. number of people, visiting hours)?
There are general visiting hours, but no restrictions on the number of visitors. The main difference is that parents can’t stay overnight like they can at PCH.
Will CFWA still be able to visit me in hospital and bring me a hospital bag as an adult?
Yes! CFWA can still visit and bring you snacks and activities to help keep you busy during your stay.
Are there any changes to the subsidies or supports I receive from CFWA?
CFWA provides a $50 transition subsidy for your first two SCGH appointments. After that, you’ll continue to receive the same supports, but under the adult subsidy program, $600 per year towards pharmacy, exercise, or equipment.
Will I still have the same level of support from social work, psychology, nursing, admin or CF team?
Yes, definitely. At SCGH you’ll still have access to the full team (psychologist, social worker, dietitian, and physios), just like at PCH.
How do I get financial help for parking, travel, or medications if I need it?
You can speak with the Charlies social worker, Felicity, for support with financial help. Or access CFWA subsidies.
What days are the CF clinics held?
Monday, Thursday and Friday. You can indicate your preference during the transition clinic. There are different clinics for different bugs so this may influence the clinic you are allocated. There are no outreach clinics at SCGH. A social worker from PCH/SCGH can assist with PATS.
Will I see the same team each time I come to clinic?
You are not allocated a primary physician so may see a different doctor depending on when you attend clinic. Generally, the same team works on the same day so if you attend clinic on Monday, you are likely to see the same people each time.
Do I have to wear a mask in hospital?
At SCGH, wearing of masks is personal preference. If you’re worried, discuss it with your team.
Does clinic run the same as PCH?
Generally, clinic is the same process, just different team members. You will still do lung function but at SCGH it will be with the physio.
How do I get appointment reminders?
PCH and SCGH are the same, letter 4 weeks prior, then text 2 days. Both hospitals would encourage you to use Manage My Care App for appointments – to set up you will need your patient number. Social worker can help with this.
What do I bring to clinic at SCGH?
Physio equipment, no need to bring medications, maybe home spirometer if you have one to check technique and compare values, Health Care Card is needed for pharmacy at PCH, but once it is registered it is saved on system at SCGH. Remember to mention any scripts you need refilled.
What happens if I forget an appointment?
Appointments can be rescheduled, no judgement if you miss, just get in touch.
Can I bring anyone to appointments?
Yes absolutely. Over time we will progress to one-on-one discussions and may need to have confidential discussions at times.
What happens if I need to contact someone out of hours?
If you need to contact the clinic you can call a nurse during office hours, or after hours you can contact the on call respiratory doctor
Is there a CF nursing team?
Yes. There is a CF nurse (equivalent to Ali and Charlotte), as well as other clinic nurses.
Do I need to organise my scripts with a GP?
The hospital will manage all CF meds; GP will handle non-CF meds. Start practicing ordering your own meds at PCH so you are ready.
Are there single rooms during admissions?
Yes, all CF patients have their own room.
What is the process if I have questions or concerns about my care?
The team are all approachable, come and talk to them if you have any concerns. There is a feedback box in the waiting area if you would prefer to write your concerns down. The SCGH CF team encourage open conversation and are non-judgemental.
Will I have to make all the medical decisions myself? What if I don’t feel ready to handle it on my own?
That’s ok, there is no timeline to be ready. Some people will be ready to jump quickly; others take time to adjust. Both the PCH and SCGH teams are very understanding. They’ll take things at your pace and make sure you feel ready before stepping up. Transition is a process; it takes time to support you in the best way possible to make sure you are ready to go. You will be nervous but that’s ok. It is ok to have a support person to help you with the transition process and support you to make decisions.
What if I miss a medication or don’t do my treatment as often as I should?
The team at SCGH is very understanding, they know that life gets in the way, they are accommodating and understanding. Be honest, there will be no judgement. The more information they have about you the more they can help with treatment plans. Being honest helps them support you to do the best you can do.
Do you do a handover from PCH to SCGH?
Part of the transfer process is to hand over a summary of your medical information, but it may also be useful to include information about you as a person, the things that worry you, your plans and goals, what you like to do for fun, any other challenges you may be facing, who your support person is and whether you want them with you in appointments. Let your PCH team know if you would like this to be included in your handover. The PCH team can also get the SCGH social worker to come and meet you when you are admitted so let them know if you would like that to happen. Any of the SCGH team members can visit whilst you’re an inpatient at PCH.