What does Pennsylvania's Act 52 of 2007 mandate regarding hospital-acquired infections?

Pennsylvania's Act 52 of 2007 establishes a critical framework for addressing hospital-acquired infections by mandating that hospitals report infection data to the Department of Health. This requirement is aimed at increasing transparency and accountability within healthcare settings, ultimately leading to improved patient safety and care quality.

By mandating such reporting, the law enables health authorities to track infection rates, identify trends, and implement necessary interventions to reduce the occurrence of these infections. This data collection is essential for both public health monitoring and for hospitals to assess their own performance, learn from incidents, and enhance infection control practices.

The act reflects a growing recognition of the importance of managing and mitigating hospital-acquired infections, thereby protecting patients and improving overall healthcare outcomes. It connects to broader efforts across the healthcare system to prioritize patient safety and ensure that healthcare facilities are held accountable for infection prevention efforts.