The improvement in the health and survival of people who have cystic fibrosis (CF) has been due to better treatment developed at major CF centres. The regimens for prevention, early treatment and later stabilization of chronic respiratory infection and for the maintenance of normal nutrition and growth are now largely established. Treatment is life-long, complex and expensive. It should be started early after a diagnosis made following neonatal screening, and before chronic respiratory infection and malnutrition are established. Regular monitoring and input from the expert staff of a CF centre is essential, either on a 'full' or 'shared care' basis; adults with CF should attend a major Adult CF unit. The details of the staff and facilities necessary to achieve good care for CF are discussed, including the details of clinic procedures and annual assessments.