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Mandatory Reporting of Healthcare Associated Infections

After years of debate on both the federal and state levels, mandatory reporting of healthcare-associated infection data has become a reality in four states, and has quickly re-aligned itself as a priority issue for APIC. ICPs in Florida, Illinois, Pennsylvania, and Missouri are mandated by state law to disclose infection rates, yet each state's requirements differ.

APIC members can play an active role in shaping this legislation as it continues to spread throughout the states and suggests reviewing the following resources:

• Links to stakeholder Websites to gain a better perspective of their viewpoints and strategies.
• Model legislation developed by the Consumers Union, a key consumer advocacy group.
• Hospital Infection Control Practices Advisory Committee (HICPAC) draft guidance document addressing the development and implementation of public reporting systems for HAIs.
• Recent testimony delivered to the HICPAC regarding the development of a guidance document.
• Sample letter designed for ICPs who may need to respond to this issue in their communities, healthcare institutions, and to their governing bodies. To obtain a copy of this document, please contact dgraham@apic.org
• Mandatory Reporting Draft Talking Points 
• Contact your Chapter Legislative Representative - In states where there is pending legislation, your assistance is needed in numerous ways.  You can assist in attending meetings with legislators, making phone calls to key legislators, writing letters/e-mails, or simply providing educational guidance. 

To obtain additional information pertaining to mandatory reporting of healthcare-associated infections click here.