Marieb College of Health & Human Services is on the cutting edge
In the world of healthcare, staying at the forefront of innovation isn’t just a choice; it’s a responsibility. At Florida Gulf Coast University, Marieb College of Health & Human Services embraces this ethos wholeheartedly. Recently, the college made a significant investment in cutting-edge technology by acquiring five Cognivue units to transform cognitive assessment education at FGCU.
Early detection is paramount in healthcare. Regular health checkups and screenings — such as blood pressure checks, cholesterol tests, colonoscopies and mammograms — enable early detection of conditions like high blood pressure, high cholesterol and cancer. Identifying issues early allows for prompt intervention and management, potentially preventing more severe health complications.
Like those screening tools, cognitive health assessments can help identify symptoms of dementia. Cognivue evaluates four cognitive domains, leveraging a staggering 130,000 data points to provide customized assessments tailored to each patient’s unique profile. This empowers individuals to recognize signs of cognitive decline early on, prompting them to seek guidance from their healthcare provider.
Such technology isn’t just another assessment tool; it’s a game-changer in the field of cognitive health. Traditional cognitive assessments can be susceptible to human bias and environmental distractions, potentially affecting the accuracy of results. Cognivue eliminates these concerns by offering a self-administered assessment using a computerized system with built-in safeguards to minimize distractions.
Patients are tested on memory retention, executive function or attention to detail, visuospatial awareness and their ability to identify letters, words, shapes and motions. The noninvasive, interactive assessment takes about 10 minutes and produces immediate results.
Addressing the healthcare needs of tomorrow
The significance of this investment by Marieb College extends beyond the university’s campus. Through clinical internships, rotations and research opportunities, more than 2,500 Marieb College students annually are immersed in real-world experiences. FGCU students collaborate with healthcare providers at institutions like Naples Comprehensive Health (NCH), Lee Health and beyond. With this new cognitive assessment tool, FGCU students, under the guidance of experienced faculty, will administer tests at health clinics in Southwest Florida, reaching out to older adults who may be at risk of dementia.
The older adult population in Southwest Florida is increasing, creating opportunities for Marieb College to be at the forefront of innovation. In the five-county area FGCU serves, 30.1% of the population is 65 and older and population projections for Southwest Florida through 2050 predict the highest growth in this age group.
With an aging population and an ever-evolving technological landscape, staying ahead of the curve is essential. Faculty in Marieb College stay abreast of advancements and trends in health and human sciences. Spearheaded by Marieb College’s dean, Shawn Felton, the acquisition of Cognivue represents a proactive approach to addressing the healthcare needs of tomorrow.
A broad range of healthcare applications
The impact this new assessment tool provides doesn’t stop with older adults. It opens doors for other populations, including athletes with traumatic brain injuries.
Graduates of FGCU’s Marieb College pursue diverse paths in nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, exercise science, health sciences, social work and counseling. The curriculum exposes students to a spectrum of assessment tools, from standard practices to cutting-edge technologies, ensuring they’re equipped to meet the evolving demands of the healthcare landscape. Students who learn to use the Cognivue units will have a leg up in any field where early detection of cognitive decline is important. Their exposure to cutting-edge technologies positions them as leaders in their respective fields.
By embracing innovation and fostering a culture of continuous learning, Marieb College isn’t just a learning environment; it’s a living laboratory where innovation thrives and the future of healthcare is shaped. With a commitment to excellence, Marieb College ensures that students are not just prepared for the challenges of today but are equipped with the skills and knowledge to navigate the complexities of healthcare in the future.
Florida Gulf Coast University
10501 FGCU Boulevard South
Fort Myers, FL 33965
(239) 590-1000 | fgcu.edu