UCAN Make a Difference: Over 40 Years of Flying High Above Chicago

The University of Chicago Aeromedical Network (UCAN) was established in 1983 and has been providing critical care transport via both air and ground in and around the Chicago area for over 40 years. Over that time, the program has transported thousands of critically ill individuals, including complex specialty populations, while also maintaining a safe transport environment for its crew members and patients. UCAN has had a profound impact not only on its patients, but also on the entire transport community by providing continuing education, conducting vital safety research while maintaining the highest safety standards, and driving the industry forward through service and leadership. Since inception, the program has experienced many changes, including the transition from a traditional hospital-based program to an alternate delivery model and the conversion of the crew from a nurse-physician team to a nurse-nurse configuration. These changes have allowed for continuous evolution within UCAN, including the introduction of internal process improvements that focus on quality, safety and education, growth of the communications team and its capabilities, and expansion of UCAN's commitment to outreach and education for its community partners.