Marc P. Volavka, Executive Director, PA Health Care Cost Containment Council

      Learn how a small state agency ignited a whirlwind of debate and interest when it published a landmark research brief that, for the first time, put hard figures around the patient safety and cost implications of hospital-acquired infections. The latest findings from Pennsylvania's public reporting efforts will be discussed, as well as the concerns and criticisms of the medical establishment. Learn about the impact of hospital-acquired infections on consumers, purchasers, providers, payers, and policymakers.
      After this presentation you will be able to:

• Explain Pennsylvania's public reporting and data collection efforts on hospital-acquired infections.
• Discuss how this mandatory public reporting experience provides valuable learning for those involved in the delivery and paymentof hospital care.
• Describe better options for uniform infection identification, including electronic solutions.