My Silicosis Management Plan

The My Silicosis Management Plan is a free, practical, patient-focused tool designed to help support individuals diagnosed with silicosis, an occupational lung disease caused by exposure to respirable crystalline silica dust. Available to be completed in digital or print formats, this tool helps people take an active role in managing their health and navigating their care. 

The Plan offers information on accessing support services, compensation pathways, and legal information, especially for those affected by workplace silica exposure. It aims to empower individuals by making complex health information accessible and actionable. 

Importantly, the Plan takes a holistic approach, addressing not only clinical care but also mental health, lifestyle changes, and workplace considerations. It includes practical tools such as appointment logs, symptom diaries, and checklists to help stay organised. 

Designed to be used in collaboration with healthcare professionals, the My Silicosis Management Plan supports informed, coordinated, and holistic care. It reflects a commitment to improving outcomes for people living with silicosis through education, advocacy, and practical support. 

This resource is part of a broader effort to raise awareness of occupational respiratory diseases and promote safer workplaces across Australia. It is suitable for use by patients, family/carers, or a treating doctor. 

This resource provides templates to track things like upcoming appointments, medication, scans and symptoms. These templates are available to download and print separately, if you need additional pages, click below.  

This Plan has been designed using feedback from people living with silicosis, their carers and family members, researchers, general practitioners and respiratory physicians. Patient interviews also informed the creation of this plan.¹ 

Lung Foundation Australia has free, telephone based, support services available, including a support nurse and social worker. These services are available for anyone impacted by silicosis or another occupational lung disease.  

1. Tikellis G, Corte T, Hoy R, Barnes H, Rhodes J, Hore-Lacy F, Holland AE. Developing a Model of Health and Supportive Care for People with Silicosis in Australia. Ann Am Thorac Soc. 2025 Aug 18. doi: 10.1513/AnnalsATS.202503-363OC. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 40824168.