Integrated care pathways

Abstract

Integrated care pathways (ICPs) offer a system of multidisciplinary care planning based around the principle of clinical audit and on the knowledge and practice of local clinical staff. The system offers a set of guiding principles, based on the fact that, because knowledge and practice change continually when caring for patients, clinical records should be flexible and dynamic to accommodate these changes. Benefits to be gained from implementing ICPs include improvements in communication between all disciplines involved, as well as between patients and carers. Optimal levels of free text are ensured through the pre-printed record having an outcomes-based focus and through incorporating the idea of exception-based recording. Issues to be considered include individuality and confidentiality. Benefits to be gained include increased patient satisfaction, a reduction in documentation and inappropriate lengths of stay.