Implementation of interdisciplinary care models and processes has been challenging for healthcare organizations. This article describes how an interdisciplinary model of care was implemented in a progressive medical care unit.

The administrative leaders of a university-based medical center decided that an interdisciplinary model of care (IMOC) was needed. The leaders received the full support of all clinical and practice vice presidents, department chairs, and directors to implement an IMOC for the entire medical center. They had a clear mission—to establish an innovative model of practice that incorporates nurses, physicians, and ancillary staff into a seamless care model, resulting in improved health outcomes and at the same time providing superior, compassionate, and innovative care for all patients and their families throughout the clinical enterprise.

An Interdisciplinary Practice Council (IPC) was established and was led by an attending physician and a nursing director. The IPC included all nonclinical and clinical departments and...

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