Mandatory public reporting: The New York State experience

Abstract

Purpose

This paper aims to describe experience to date with mandatory public reporting of healthcare‐associated infection rates from a perspective inside one of the first and most advanced of the state programs, to help frame the research agenda of an interdisciplinary university faculty collaborative.

Design/ methodology/ approach

The paper is a narrative review of personal experience.

Findings

Key factors enabling program achievements include starting with a sufficient pilot phase, including strong provisions for audit and validation, a balance of viewpoints among advisors to the program, adoption of internationally respected data systems, and ability to sponsor improvement projects in reporting hospitals. Identified pitfalls and needs for more progress also must be addressed.

Practical implications

Public health departments are in uncharted territory with this new area of activity, faced with fundamental knowledge gaps that potentially hamper chances of success. Perspectives explored in this part of the Universities Council Symposium help frame a research agenda and guide evolution of less advanced programs.

Originality/value

This review helps frame the research agenda of an interdisciplinary university faculty collaborative and guides evolution of less advanced programs.

Citation

Stricof, R. (2012), "Mandatory public reporting: The New York State experience", Clinical Governance: An International Journal, Vol. 17 No. 2, pp. 109-112. https://doi.org/10.1108/14777271211220817