Structure of a Bronchiectasis and Nontuberculous Mycobacteria Care Center: A Position Statement by the Bronchiectasis & NTM Association.

Flume, Patrick; Bullington, Wendy; Christon, Lily; Crawford, Eva; Ditner, Alyssa; Ellis, Karen; Fiske, Christina; Foil, Kim et al. · Chest · 2025

expert_opinion · Level V

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Abstract

The Bronchiectasis & NTM Association established a network of specialized care centers with unique skills in the diagnosis and management of patients with bronchiectasis (BE) and/or infection with nontuberculous mycobacteria (NTM). The mission of the network is to reduce the time to diagnosis and support high-quality care for patients affected by these conditions. This was intended to address the rising incidence and prevalence of people with BE and/or NTM infection. What is the ideal structure of a care center, including the members of a multidisciplinary core team, essential partners for more common complications of disease, and the necessary support staff to provide comprehensive care for patients with BE and/or NTM infection? Thorough review of the literature and expert consensus was used to develop guidance for center structure. Recommendations for the core team, essential partners, services and programs, and a support team are offered. These are recommended to provide comprehensive care for people affected by bronchiectasis and/or NTM disease. This guidance is intended to support the development and improvement of bronchiectasis and NTM care centers.