West Boca Medical Center's Cystic Fibrosis Program Named Finalist for Healthcare Award

West Boca Medical Center’s Cystic Fibrosis Program was recently named a finalist for the 2003 Excellence in Healthcare Award – Hospital Based Program Category, given by the South Florida Business Journal.

The Cystic Fibrosis (CF) Program at West Boca Medical Center began in 1999 at the request of CF patients who wanted to be more involved in shaping their treatment plans. Cystic fibrosis is a life-long respiratory disease caused by a genetic defect, and as a result many patients are their own “experts” on what care is required.  With this in mind, West Boca Medical Center implemented a special team approach to treating CF patients called “Patient As Expert.”

“Those suffering with cystic fibrosis tend to be sophisticated patients with clear concerns about the quality and kind of care they receive,” said Ruth Schwarzkopf, chief nursing officer of WBMC. “The patient’s input is paramount in helping us promote optimal outcomes.”

The treatment team consists of specialists who collaborate to provide care for both adult and pediatric cystic fibrosis patients. The interdisciplinary healthcare team forms the core of the program and meets regularly to assess the clinical, educational and psychosocial needs of the family and to plan and evaluate care provided. The team consists of pulmonologists, gastroenterologists, respiratory technologists, nutritionists, physical therapists, nurses and case managers.