Larry Trenk
It’s easy for our attention to be diverted by serious world events like the terrible oil leak down in the Gulf but we can’t afford to forget about healthcare topics .. . because they involve absolutely everyone.
Of particular concern these days is infection control. Whether a surgical procedure is performed in a doctor’s office, a hospital, or an ambulatory surgery center, there’s always a possibility of infection. It’s the responsibility of each medical facility, no matter how large or small, to avoid such adverse consequences. Within New Jersey’s ambulatory surgery center sector my area of professional expertise multiple preventative measures are practiced as a matter of routine.
For example, all of the state’s surgical centers certified by Medicare must meet stringent federal infection control protocols. Further, all New Jersey’s licensed ambulatory surgery centers must follow specific anti-infection guidelines, including periodic inspections by a certified infection-control consultant. Failure to do so would result in withdrawal of approval by accrediting bodies. Clearly, New Jersey’s facilities are held to high standards of accountability relative to preventing possible incidences of infection.
Nationwide, New Jersey-based ASCs are acknowledged as leaders related to infection control models, and we are duly proud of our excellent patient outcomes. We pioneered many processes that today are industry-wide standards, and we continue to spearhead new developments. Along with our member centers, the New Jersey Association of Ambulatory Surgery Centers is deeply committed to enhancing infection control procedures, and to ensuring ASCs remain at the forefront of infection prevention efforts within the overall healthcare industry.
The writer is the president of the New Jersey Association of Ambulatory Surgery Centers.
