Declines in Hospital-Acquired Conditions Save Lives and Money

Efforts to reduce hospital-acquired conditions (HACs) such as adverse drug events and falls have been a major focus of quality improvements on a national level, as well as at individual healthcare facilities. According to the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ), HAC rates decreased by just over 20% between 2010 and 2015.

In its recent report, new patient safety data indicates that between 2014 and 2016, HAC reduction efforts resulted in an 8% decrease in events, $2.9 billion in savings and the prevention of about 8,000 deaths. The agency found especially significant progress in the reduction of central line-associated bloodstream infections, which decreased by 31% over those two years. In addition, ventilator-associated pneumonia cases dropped by 32%.

Of the 10 main conditions included in the report, only pressure ulcers and catheter-associated urinary tract infections rates increased and represent an opportunity for further improvement.  Overall, this report suggests that HAC reduction programs continue to be successful.

MLMIC supports the ongoing efforts of healthcare institutions and providers to improve the quality and safety of patient care.