Finding Quality Lymphedema Care

Introduction

The treatment of lymphedema requires the services of a well trained lymphedema therapist. This training includes a deep understanding of the lymphatic system plus knowledge and experience in the hands-on skills required to perform the treatments.

The Standards for the Required Training of a Lymphedema Therapist are published on the National Lymphedema Network website. On the right side of the home page, and find the heading “NLN Position Papers” and click on training. Print this document, read it carefully, and save it for use as a reference when you are looking for, or evaluating, a therapist.

Locating A Treatment Center

There is no national master list of lymphedema treatment centers available; however, the following tips can help you find a treatment center.

• The physician who diagnosed your lymphedema should be able to recommend to you a qualified lymphedema therapist.
• Hospitals often provide lymphedema treatment as an outpatient program through the rehabilitation, physical therapy, occupational therapy, or breast cancer treat-ment programs.
• An oncology practice or a cancer center should have information as to where lymphedema treatment can be found.
• A pediatrician treating a patient born with primary lymphedema should promptly refer this patient to a qualified therapist for evaluation and treatment.
• Insurance companies know where lymphedema is treated. Ask your insurance company for suggestions as to where you can find “in network” treatment
• Cancer support groups are helpful because there is usually one or more members who have lymphedema and can help you find treatment is available.
• Lymph Notes has posts online treatment facilities that have requested to be listed. We also have a larger list of facilities, by state. This is available by e-mailing your request to ann@lymphnotes.

A therapist wrapping the patient's arm and hand to obtain better compression.

Finding A Qualified Therapist

There is no central registry of certified lymphedema therapists (CLT) readily available; however, each Lymphedema Therapist Training Programs that meet the training standards, maintains a website that includes a list of their graduates. Some of these therapists are in private practice and this is a good way to locate them.

• Academy of Lymphatic Studies www.acols.com
• Klose Training and Consulting www.klosetraining.com
• Norton School of Lymphatic Therapy www.nortonschool.com
• The Dr. Vodder School International www.vodderschool.com
• The LANA website includes a list by state of the LANA certified therapists (CLT-LANA).
• National Lymphedema Network (NLN) members receive the quarterly “Lymph Links” newsletter. Some lymphedema therapists purchase classified ads that list the therapist’s name, state, qualifications, and telephone number.
• Lymph Notes lists professionals who have have submited documentation of their professional qualifications. If the therapist’s employer is also listed, these two listings are linked.

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Category: Seeking Lymphedema Treatment Updated: 2009-11-13