Indirect Versus Direct Standardization Methods for Reporting Healthcare-Associated Infections: An Analysis of Central Line-Associated Bloodstream Infections in Maryland

Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol. 2017 Aug;38(8):989-992. doi: 10.1017/ice.2017.120. Epub 2017 Jun 19.

Abstract

Whether healthcare-associated infection data should be presented using indirect (current CMS/CDC methodology) or direct standardization remains controversial. We applied both methods to central-line-associated bloodstream infection data from 45 acute-care hospitals in Maryland from 2012 to 2014. We found that the 2 methods generate different hospital rankings with payment implications. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2017;38:989-992.

Publication types

  • Comparative Study
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Bacteremia / epidemiology
  • Catheter-Related Infections / epidemiology*
  • Catheterization, Central Venous / adverse effects*
  • Cross Infection / epidemiology*
  • Hospitals / standards
  • Hospitals / statistics & numerical data
  • Humans
  • Maryland / epidemiology