Closing the Gap in Schizophrenia Care

Autumn Roque, DNP, APRN, PMHNP-BC, Assistant Professor at the University of San Diego Hahn School of Nursing and Health Science, co-authored an article published in Psychiatric Times titled “Closing the Gap in Schizophrenia Care: Insights from the INTEGRATE Guidelines.” The publication examines how evidence-based strategies and interdisciplinary collaboration can improve outcomes for individuals living with schizophrenia, a condition that continues to present significant challenges in diagnosis, treatment, and long-term support.

In the article, Dr. Roque and her colleagues present the INTEGRATE Guidelines, a framework that unifies care approaches across psychiatric, primary, and community settings. The guidelines emphasize early intervention, coordinated care, and continuous monitoring as key elements that can lead to improved recovery and quality of life for patients.

Drawing on her expertise in psychiatric mental health nursing, Dr. Roque offers valuable insight into how behavioral and primary care can work together to better support patients. Through her research and clinical practice, she focuses on developing connected, patient-centered systems that treat the whole person. Her work shows how advanced practice nurses can influence both individual and community health by addressing the links between physical and mental well-being. By promoting collaboration across disciplines and ensuring continuity of care, Dr. Roque advances evidence-based nursing that leads to meaningful progress and greater equity in mental health care.

“Too often, patients with schizophrenia experience fragmented care that hinders recovery,” Dr. Roque explained. “By adopting the INTEGRATE model, clinicians can better align treatment with real-world needs, ensuring that care is both evidence-based and compassionate.”

This publication reflects the Hahn School of Nursing’s commitment to advancing evidence-based practice and clinical excellence while supporting the University of San Diego’s wellness initiative, USD Begins with Us. Through the scholarship and leadership of faculty members such as Dr. Roque, the university continues to demonstrate that community wellness begins with each of us. Together, we strengthen a culture of care that starts at USD and extends into the communities we serve.

Learn more about our Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner program