Respirologist-Do I need one and how do I get one?
A breathing specialist (Respirologist) must be involved in your care. Respirologists have specialized training in ventilation and advise PROP Respiratory Therapy Staff on your therapy needs.
Meeting with a Respirologist requires a referral from a family doctor. If it is your first time seeing this specialist, it may take several months to get an appointment.
What if I don’t have a family doctor?
Visit a Nurse Practitioner or Walk In clinic
What can I expect during my initial in-home visit?
A PROP Respiratory Therapist (RT) will arrive at your home at the pre-arranged date and time. This appointment can range 45-90 minutes.
You will be introduced to Technology for Living (TFL) – the organization which includes Provincial Respiratory Outreach Program (PROP), Technology for Independent Living (TIL), and Peer Support.
You will be shown how to use and care for the equipment and supplies provided and have an opportunity to try the therapy. You will be provided with a folder containing this information for your future reference.
How much do I have to pay for the equipment and supplies?
If you qualify for the PROP Program, there is NO charge to you. PROP operates as a non-profit organization, meaning that supplies and equipment are not unlimited but are enough to meet your needs. If you require more supplies than PROP can provide, please explore extended health benefits if applicable or Product Distribution if you qualify for Persons with Disabilities (PWD).
Why don’t the RTs call me regularly?
PROP operates as a self-directed care model. This means that once you have been introduced to PROP and provided education on equipment and supplies, it is up to you to call PROP to address your needs moving forward. This maintains your autonomy and right to direct your care. At a minimum, a PROP RT will contact you once per year to arrange for your annual in-home visit. If you require assistance at any time throughout the year, we ask that you contact us at 1-866-326-1245 or email us at prop@technologyforliving.org and a PROP RT is there to provide assistance to you.
What other services are available through Technology for Living?
TFL is comprised of 3 programs. TIL (Technology for Independent Living) helps with independence in the home by providing voice activated environmental controls for those with limited hand and arm mobility. The Peer Support program is a group of program users who make themselves available to you for working through issues that come up as part of your lived experience
I am moving into a facility; can I still access PROP services?
If you can direct your own care and live in a private facility, you likely still qualify for PROP services. Being able to teach caregivers and ask for assistance is compulsory to be successful on this program. If you live in a care home or facility that is funded and staffed by a Ministry of Health funded Health Authority, you will not qualify for PROP as all equipment, supplies and services will be provided to you by the funded facility. Please contact PROP and we can help determine your eligibility.
What happens when I go into the hospital?
When you access medical care, your health care will be provided by that facility. PROP RTs are not allowed to make setting changes or monitor your condition while you are in hospital recovering from an acute medical concern or medical procedure. When you are discharged back home, PROP services resume. In some cases, your care after admission is no longer suitable or safe for community living and PROP may no longer be appropriate. This will be determined upon discharge planning with the hospital.
I forget how to use my bilevel/ventilator, where can I find information?
You can find equipment videos and resources on our website under “Resources”. Alternatively, you can call a PROP RT at 1-866-326-1245.
How long should my mask last?
Most masks will last 6 months to one year depending on proper cleaning and handling. If you consistently use your BiPAP nightly or more, we recommend you have two masks to rotate weekly.
How do I get help in the middle of the night with my equipment?
If you are having technical difficulties with your machine or feel that you need more breathing support, please call our 1-866-326-1245 number. If you call outside of business hours, the call will be answered by a third-party call center. They will take a message and contact our On-Call RT who will then call you back. Please do NOT call this line for respiratory/medical emergencies. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call 911 immediately.
What do I need to know before I travel?
- If you are a highly dependent BiPAP user, please bring both of your machines.
- Bring a spare mask and supplies as PROP cannot ship supplies out of the province.
- When flying, carry-on your machine(s) and supplies – do NOT put any equipment or supplies into checked luggage.
- See our “Resources” page for more information on Travel and Emergency Information.
If I want to donate, how is the money utilized? How do I donate?
Since PROP operates as a non-profit program and is fully funded by the MOH, this program does not accept donations. Our other programs and projects can accept donations and these funds directly benefit all members of TFL. The funds may be used to install an automatic door opener, to purchase new environmental control systems, or provide peer support engagement opportunities. PROP members often use all services provided by TFL so these gifts are very beneficial and gratefully received.
To donate, please visit: Support Us – Technology for Living.