WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) and the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) will examine the effective preparedness of healthcare organizations for bioterrorist incidents and emerging pathogens at their national conference, Nov. 17-18, 2003 at the Hotel Intercontinental in Chicago.
According to APIC president Barbara M. Soule, RN, MPA, CIC, a featured speaker at the conference, "Although infection control and bioterrorism are major concerns for healthcare organizations, a recent GAO report suggests that many hospitals lack the capacity to respond to large-scale disease outbreaks and disasters. It is imperative that we address these issues in a meaningful and timely manner."
The conference's key topics will include:
-- Preparedness for bioterrorism, pandemics, and emerging pathogens
-- Lessons learned from SARS, HIV/AIDS, and West Nile Virus incidents
-- Redefining the roles and skills of infection control professionals
-- Pros and cons of data-driven surveillance
-- Understanding how infection control programs influence the bottom line
The conference will also highlight the 2004 National Patient Safety Goals and the proposed infection control standards developed with the participation of the Joint Commission's Infection Control Expert Panel. This initiative includes APIC's representative, Georgia P. Dash, RN, MS, CIC.
For healthcare professionals specifically interested in the Joint Commission's proposed infection control standards, an optional infection control post-conference workshop is being offered. Attendees to both the post-conference and the conference will receive a $75 discount at registration.
Complete program information, conference agenda and brochure are available by calling customer service at (877) 223-6866.
APIC is a multidisciplinary, voluntary, international organization with more than 10,000 members. APIC promotes wellness and prevents illness and infection worldwide by advancing healthcare epidemiology through education, collaboration, research, practice, and credentialing. For more information, visit the APIC Web site at www.apic.org
Source: APIC
Stay prepared and protected with Infection Control Today's newsletter, delivering essential updates, best practices, and expert insights for infection preventionists.
US Withdrawal From UNESCO Signals a Dangerous Step Back for Global Science
July 22nd 2025In a decision heavy with consequence and light on foresight, the US has once again chosen to walk away from UNESCO, leaving behind not just a seat at the table, but a legacy of global scientific leadership that now lies in question.
Breaking the Cycle of Silence: Why Sharps Injuries Go Unreported and What Can Be Done
Published: July 24th 2025 | Updated: July 23rd 2025Despite decades of progress in health care safety, a quiet but dangerous culture still lingers: many health care workers remain afraid to report sharps injuries, fearing blame more than the wound itself.
Telemedicine's Transformative Role in PPE Distribution and Sterile Equipment Management
July 22nd 2025In an era defined by digital transformation and post-pandemic urgency, telemedicine has evolved beyond virtual visits to become a vital infrastructure for delivering personal protective equipment (PPE) and managing sterile supplies. By enabling real-time forecasting, remote quality control, and equitable distribution, telemedicine is revolutionizing how health care systems protect both patients and providers.
Reducing Hidden Risks: Why Sharps Injuries Still Go Unreported
July 18th 2025Despite being a well-known occupational hazard, sharps injuries continue to occur in health care facilities and are often underreported, underestimated, and inadequately addressed. A recent interview with sharps safety advocate Amanda Heitman, BSN, RN, CNOR, a perioperative educational consultant, reveals why change is overdue and what new tools and guidance can help.