Science-Based Strategies Take Aim at HAIs

With patient concerns for HAIs growing, the five partnering organizations decided the time was right to review and synthesize current guidelines and develop practical strategies that could be readily implemented by healthcare professionals. The urgency is also heightened for acute care facilities to work toward eliminating HAIs. Beginning Oct. 1, 2008, CMS will no longer reimburse hospitals for costs related to treating certain HAIs.

Patrick J. Brennan, MD, chief medical officer for the Penn Health System, head of the federal Healthcare Infection Control Practices Advisory Committee (HICPAC) and president of SHEA, said that it is the consensus of the compendium authors that many more infections are now preventable. “It’s not a deficit of knowledge, but a deficit of implementation,” Brennan emphasized. “The challenge before us is keeping the information current, as knowledge and science progress.” Brennan added, "People should expect healthcare that is safe and free from additional complications. This effort will benefit healthcare providers, patients and their families, and just about everyone who walks in the hospital door because the strategies announced today identify what hospitals should be doing based on the latest scientific evidence and also provide  performance measures to ensure accountability. "

To access the compendium information, CLICK HERE.