Transplant Center Uses Cooperative Care Model

OMAHA, Nebraska—The Lied Transplant Center, located on the University of Nebraska Medical Center campus, recently had its grand opening and is expected to begin admitting patients this month for solid organ or bone marrow transplants. Its 14 levels include clinics and treatment rooms, 44 cooperative care suites, 44 Nebraska House guest suites, and four floors devoted to research. The Center takes its name from the Lied Foundation Trust, which donated $15 million toward construction.

The Center has adopted the cooperative care model in which a patient’s caregiver (friend, spouse, parent, or relative) stays with the patient and provides basic care during treatment and recovery. Care partners assist with daily activities, monitor and assist with self-medication, and escort the patient to and from treatments. The center is said to be the first in the country to combine cooperative care, research, and education.