Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) released data indicating a decline in healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) among hospitalized patients in the United States. The 2023 survey showed that about 1 in 38 hospitalized patients had at least one HAI, compared to 1 in 31 patients in 2015. Adjustments for patient population differences suggest improved patient outcomes over this period.
The 2023 survey used data from 13,653 patients across 218 hospitals in 10 states, with medical records reviewed by trained staff applying National Healthcare Safety Network definitions to detect HAIs.
Despite this progress, HAIs remain a significant public health concern. The CDC estimates that about 518,000 HAIs occurred nationwide in 2023, contributing to high healthcare costs and ongoing risks for patients. Pneumonia, surgical site infections, and gastrointestinal infections were the most frequent HAIs. Notably, 61% of all HAIs were not associated with medical devices or procedures.
Efforts to combat HAIs involve collaboration between the CDC and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), which track infection rates through quality reporting, feedback, benchmarking, and national transparency. The CDC also issues evidence-based guidance to further reduce HAIs in clinical settings.
Officials stressed the importance of accountability and collaboration to improve patient safety. Acting CDC Director Jay Bhattacharya, MD, PhD, and CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz highlighted the value of federal agency cooperation and transparent quality measures in driving the reported improvements.