APIC Conference to address new CMS regulations

Sept. meeting will provide health care leaders with information and best practices related to upcoming federal reimbursement cuts for HAIs

Washington, DC, April 17, 2008 – The new Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) regulations that will eliminate or reduce payments for three hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) will be the subject of a two-day conference for healthcare executives and professionals sponsored by the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC). “Mastering the New CMS Regulation: Implications for Infection Prevention & Control,” takes place September 22-23, 2008 at the Crystal Gateway Marriott in Arlington, VA.

Beginning October 1, 2008, CMS will no longer reimburse hospitals for costs related to eight preventable conditions, including three HAIs: catheter-associated urinary tract infections (UTIs), catheter-associated blood stream infections, and mediastinitis (a deep infection following coronary artery bypass surgery). The APIC conference will present information on how leading institutions are managing the clinical and economic impact of the new HAI regulations and practical strategies to assist facilities with compliance.

“We see this as an important opportunity to help clinical and administrative leaders work together to reduce infection, improve outcomes and preserve healthcare resources,” said APIC Chief Executive Officer Kathy L. Warye. “The conference will offer the most current information from CMS, as well as best practices and ways of approaching quality improvement to achieve reductions in HAIs.”