Hospital-acquired Conditions Fall 8% Over Two Years

Hospital-acquired conditions declined by 8% between 2014 and 2016, preventing an estimated 8,000 deaths and $2.9 billion in health care costs, according to results reported today by the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. HACs decreased by an estimated 350,000 over the period, including a 15% decline in infections and adverse drug events, the agency said, largely through the work of 16 Hospital Improvement Innovation Networks. “Today’s results show that this is a tremendous accomplishment by America’s hospitals in delivering high-quality, affordable health care,” said Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services Administrator Seema Verma. “CMS is committed to moving the health care system to one that improves quality and fosters innovation while reducing administrative burden and lowering costs. This work could not be accomplished without the concerted effort of our many hospital, patient, provider, private and federal partners – all working together to ensure the best possible care by protecting patients from harm and making care safer.” AHA President and CEO Rick Pollack said, “America’s hospitals and health systems are deeply committed to improving the safety of care for the patients and communities we proudly serve each day. Today’s report showing a decline in hospital-acquired conditions is due to the continued work and dedication of our members across the country in making care safer. This includes the strong efforts of AHA’s Health Research & Educational Trust HIIN, which is the nation’s largest, and many others. America’s hospitals and health systems will continue to work with CMS and our other partners in the health field to ensure every patient receives the highest-quality care.”