Mobile Intensive Care Unit.

MICU stands for Mobile Intensive Care Unit, an EMS vehicle category recognized in Texas. Do not assume that the name means every hospital intensive-care treatment can be continued in every ambulance.

When to start the conversation

When a patient has complex transport needs, the sending and receiving clinicians should establish what support is required during the journey. The transport provider must be part of that discussion.

1. 01

   Start with the sending team

   Ask who is responsible for explaining the patient’s transport requirements.
2. 02

   Include the receiving team

   Clarify the destination and the contact responsible for the arrival handoff.
3. 03

   Discuss the proposed journey

   Ask how clinical requirements, timing and the handoff will be addressed before confirming transportation.

• Which clinician is coordinating the transfer?
• Who is the receiving contact?
• How will any change in the patient’s transport needs be communicated?

Contact MEDICS to discuss a transportation request. The appropriate arrangement and availability must be confirmed for the individual trip. Keep patient and medical details out of general email.

General reference: Texas: EMS terminology. This guide explains a category; the patient’s care team determines their care needs.