Infections acquired in hospitals and other healthcare settings are a major problem; up to 5,000 people are estimated to die in the UK each year as a result of healthcare associated infections (HCAIs).

The NHS in England does not perform as well as some other European countries; the incidence of hospital acquired infection has remained constant at 9% / 10% for over 30 years.

Various studies indicate that HCAIs could be costing the NHS as much as £1bn a year; one-third could be recovered by improved infection control, releasing resources of £150m for alternative NHS use.



Two reports, 'Winning ways' and 'Towards cleaner hospitals and lower rates of infection', both highlighted major flaws in current procedures and policies, and detailed a new plan of action for all relevant stakeholders.

The Health Protection Agency has been tasked with managing the surveillance of all progress on MRSA reported incidents.

Their most recent findings (April-September 2005) identified that 50% of trusts are on target and 50% of trusts are behind target to make a 50% reduction in MRSA by 2008.

Health Minister Jane Kennedy: "I am disappointed that, despite trusts making significant reductions in infections, the overall figures do not reflect these improvements."

The DH will now be offering targeted support for trusts facing the biggest challenges. Targeted support has two main elements:

• HCAI MRSA Improvement Programme
• Performance Improvement Network

The conference will seek to define the strategy that underpins these elements and highlight Best Practice already occurring across the sector.

Focus will also be on the support available through the DH specialist teams in 2006 and beyond.



Event Objectives

Reducing HCAI requires the commitment and involvement of every member of the hospital team. The infection control team can train, advise and support; however, success will depend on directors, managers and clinicians each playing their part. This event has been designed to ensure that all staff involved at every level have the opportunity to:

• Gain a greater understanding of the issues currently preventing reduction in MRSA;
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• Fully understand the policy driving these agendas, and the support available to them from DH and other stakeholders throughout 2006;
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• Have an inclusive environment to discuss and disseminate Best Practice;
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• Access tailored workshops presented by both public and private sector organisations;
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• Engage in consultations with leading organisations from a range of industries offering services and solutions.

Health - Public Service Review: Health, due to increasing popularity, has returned to a quarterly edition, whilst still attracting top-level editorial from the people who count in the NHS and beyond. [read more]



Issue 10
Foreword: Ivan Lewis MP, Minister for Care Services
  › View Foreword & Contents