Experts from the frontline of infection prevention and control, regulatory bodies and industry talked about what has been achieved – and what still needs to be done

The last decade has seen tremendous progress in the battle against some healthcare acquired infections – in particular MRSA and Clostridium difficile. But with new organisms becoming a threat and the emergence of drug resistant strains, much still needs to be done before the NHS can rest on its laurels.

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Among the issues are the resources devoted to infection prevention and control, the needs to think beyond the acute hospital into the community to tackle infection and its causes, behaviour change and the need to procure products which offer value for money rather than just the cheapest.

An HSJ roundtable sponsored by Gama Healthcare brought together experts from the frontline of infection prevention and control, regulatory bodies and industry to talk about what has been achieved – and what still needs to be done.

 

Panellists

Mike Farrar, independent consultant – roundtable chair

Pat Cattini, vice president of the Infection Prevention Society

Naomi Chapman, clinical engagement director and chief nurse towers 1 and 3, NHS Supply Chain

Linda Dempster, head of infection control, NHS Improvement

Duncan Eaton, former chief executive NHS Purchasing and Supply Agency

Rose Gallagher, Royal College of Nursing professional lead for infection control

Tracey Gauci, deputy clinical director Gama Healthcare

Nicola Harrington, tower director 1 and 3 NHS Supply Chain

Annette Jeanes, director of infection prevention and control University College Hospitals London Foundation Trust

Martin Kiernan, clinical director Gama Healthcare