Patient Support

Supporting all Australians living with immunodeficiency

Receiving a diagnosis of primary or secondary immunodeficiency has an impact across all aspects of your day-to-day life. Living a life of multiple medical appointments, illnesses and medications is exhausting which is why IDFA offers a variety of ways to support you.

How can IDFA support you?

You’re not alone in this journey. No matter where you live in Australia, we can provide a community and the extra support you’re looking for through our membership program.

Social support – bringing you together with others affected by immunodeficiency

  • Connect with the IDFA community in our private Facebook groups
  • Patient linking – connect with others who have similar a PID/SID
  • Member get-togethers supported by IDFA.

Emotional support – giving you opportunities to share your experience with others

  • Practical advice on living with immunodeficiency
  • Peer support programs.

Educational support – learn more about primary and secondary immunodeficiency

  • Resources (e-resources and hard copy)
  • Educational programs
  • Patient meetings and conferences (in-person and online)
  • Webinars
  • Guidance on accessing NDIS and Centrelink services
  • Guidance from our Medical Advisory Committee
  • Group support.

Advocacy support – encouraging self-advocacy and advocating for you on key issues

  • Through social media you can advocate for yourself by sharing our news, updates and educational graphics.
  • IDFA advocates on your behalf influencing policy makers and government on key issues e.g. SCID newborn screening.

Awareness support – giving you opportunities to share your experience with others

  • Community education programs
  • Awareness campaigns throughout the year e.g. World PI Week, National Blood Donor Week, International Plasma Awareness Week
  • Raising awareness in the medical and broader community by attending and speaking at special events encouraging acceptance of immunodeficiencies.