ICAPS start with neuromedicine

ICAPS Start With Neuromedicine

An important component of the UF&Shands Forward Together Strategic Plan is the creation of Interdisciplinary Clinical and Academic Programs (ICAPs). The ICAPs will unite the UF Health Science Center and Shands HealthCare’s efforts to provide better, more efficient care.

ICAPs are being established in cancer, cardiovascular, children’s and women’s services, neuromedicine, transplant and perioperative (surgical) services. These interdisciplinary teams are composed of physician, nursing, operations, quality and finance staff. The ICAP teams guide the overall strategy and development in each area. They are charged with promoting the highest quality clinical care as well as managing resources and finances.

The first ICAP, the Neuromedicine ICAP, or NICAP, was launched in September with the goal of creating the highest quality, most patient-centric neuromedicine service in the country. Membership includes representatives from Neurosurgery, Neurology, Psychiatry, Anesthesiology, Radiology, Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Critical Care Medicine, Nursing, Discharge Planning, Shands Finance, Shands Marketing and Public Relations, Quality, Transfer Center, the Operating Room and Coding.

NICAP projects include:

  • Developing a neuromedicine business plan
  • Planning a ‘hospital-within-a-hospital’ for neurological and neurosurgical patients to ensure efficient, coordinated care for patients with neurological conditions
  • Improving care for patients at the end of life through the increased use of palliative care
  • Focusing on patient safety issues throughout the continuum of care