ABSTRACT
As a coping support system, the cystic fibrosis clinic was in many ways an ideal type. More than any of the other clinics it was concerned with long range or life cycle issues. To a greater extent than in any of the other outpatient services a key role was played by health related community networks. Many families by virtue of their membership in local cystic fibrosis associations, showed a marked ability to cope with the problems of the illness and to deal with some of the impersonal procedures of the hospital. These families showed greater initiative in relating to the clinic staff, and hospital personnel displayed a more supportive attitude toward them.
