In this episode, another senior medical administrator is confronted with a challenging scenario: how to address high hospital-acquired infection rates. Clinical governance veteran Dr David Rankin speaks with Dr Peter Lowthian, who has worked as a Director of Medical Services and who currently serves on the boards of a large private hospital and the Australasian Cardiac Surgery Research Institution.

The two discuss infection issues, particularly focusing on urinary tract infections in orthopedic wards, emphasizing the importance of data accuracy, involving clinicians in data collection, and individualized data feedback to drive accountability and change.

The discussion delves into the complexities of comparing hospitals and promoting behavioural change among healthcare teams, stressing the significance of addressing infections beyond their cost implications, including patient outcomes and reputation. Additionally, it highlights the need for a multifaceted approach to tackle this issue, involving various healthcare disciplines and utilizing data as a coaching tool rather than a policing mechanism.

Disclaimer:

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in the following Podcast are the speaker’s own and do not represent the views, thoughts, and opinions of the Royal Australasian College of Medical Administrators (RACMA). The material and information presented here is for general information purposes only, and should not be considered health, legal or financial advice. The cases discussed in the Podcast may be specific to the speaker’s organisation or location, and may not be applicable to other organisations, states, territories or countries. RACMA does not endorse, approve, recommend, or certify any information, product, process, service, or organisation presented or mentioned in this Podcast, and information from this Podcast should not be referenced in any way to imply such approval or endorsement. RACMA will not be held responsible for any losses, damages, or liabilities that may arise from the use of this Podcast. The Podcast may contain descriptions of health incidents that may be graphic and triggering for some people, so listener discretion is advised.