Understanding Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAI)

What Are Healthcare-Associated Infections (HAIs)?

A Healthcare-Associated Infection (HAI) is an infection that a patient acquires while receiving treatment for medical or surgical conditions in a healthcare facility. These infections are a major, yet often preventable, threat to patient safety. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) rigorously tracks these infections to hold hospitals accountable and help patients choose safer facilities.

How Are Infection Rates Measured? (The SIR Score)

To accurately compare hospitals of different sizes and patient demographics, CMS uses a metric called the Standardized Infection Ratio (SIR).

The Predicted Infections number is calculated using complex risk-adjustment models. It takes into account factors like the hospital's type, medical school affiliation, number of intensive care unit beds, and the general health status of its patient population.

How to Read an SIR Score?

• SIR < 1.0 (Less than 1.0): The hospital had fewer infections than predicted. This indicates a safer hospital with strong infection control protocols.
• SIR = 1.0 (Exactly 1.0): The hospital had exactly the number of infections predicted based on the national baseline. It is performing at an average level.
• SIR > 1.0 (Greater than 1.0): The hospital had more infections than predicted. This highlights a potential risk in patient safety and sanitation.