What is an Individual Healthcare Plan (IHCP)?

An individual healthcare plan (also known as an IHCP) is a care plan given to your school if you have a medical condition that requires support or medication from school staff. 

It’ll be written by a medical professional and will include specifics about your medical condition, should you need help, support or any medication issuing. 

For example, an IHCP may be given to your school if you have: 

Diabetes: This might include information on what to do if you have low or high blood sugar levels. 

Asthma: This might include details of any triggers, or how and when to use your inhaler in the event of an asthma attack.

Epilepsy: This could include information about triggers and what to do in the event of a seizure. 

Eczema: This might include details of medication such as creams or ointments. 

Some schools might require an IHCP for medical conditions such as: 

• Von Willebrands disease

• Low blood pressure

• Eating disorders

But most schools will have an IHCP for any person that has a recognised/diagnosed medical condition that needs support or adjustments during a school day. IHCP’s are reviewed every year for any changes, or as soon as any significant changes such as medication dosage are made to your care plan. 

If you think you might need an IHCP for a medical condition, speak to your teachers. 

An IHCP is different to an EHCP (also known as an education and health care plan) which relate to special education needs.

How to get help

If you have any more questions on this area or would like to speak to somebody about this topic, have a look at the links or search for your local services in the blue box below. Alternatively you can always contact your school nurse.

• w: Leicestershire Partnership NHS Trust - IHCPs