UF Health wins two AAMC awards

The Association of American Medical Colleges has selected two UF Health programs to receive top awards recognizing institutions that advance medical education, enhance research opportunities and improve patient care. UF Health was the only institution recognized twice by the 2014 AAMC Learning Health System Research Awards.

Consent2Share, a UF Clinical and Translational Science Institute program that allows patients receiving care to be re-contacted for future research studies, was honored with the 2014 Pioneer Award for improving the connection between researchers and willing participants. More than 17,000 patients are currently enrolled in Consent2Share and about 4,000 individuals have been connected to ongoing research protocols at UF. Planned expansion in 2015 will give all UF Health patients the opportunity to participate in the program.

“This award is recognition of UF’s national leadership role in developing a learning health system and engaging multiple stakeholders to translate research discovery into improved health care,” said David Nelson, M.D., UF CTSI director and assistant vice president for research. “It emphasizes the team approach and commitment that is required for such an innovative program to be successful.”

UF Health also was recognized with the 2014 Champion Award for its commitment to clinical quality and patient safety.

Through comprehensive initiatives, UF Health is providing opportunities for learning, growth and shared research to better serve patients and improve quality clinical care. The award recognized improvements in patient safety and professional coordination as well as innovative programs dedicated to providing the best possible care for patients, with an emphasis on the patient experience.

“Our mission is to make quality a No. 1 priority at UF Health,” said Randy Harmatz, M.B.A., UF Health Clinical Quality and Patient Safety senior vice president and chief quality officer. “This award provides a platform for caregivers, learners, educators and researchers to share quality improvement work across the organization.”

UF Health continues to support the development and implementation of processes that address and solve quality improvement questions.