Govt. funds targeted research into infection prevention

Healthcare-associated infections are the most common hospital-acquired complication in Australia, leading to readmissions, poorer patient outcomes and increased emotional and financial burden. Older Australians and those living in residential aged care are at a heightened risk of infection.

The Albanese government has recognised the need for further action on infection prevention and control (IPC) within the nation's residential aged care sector, announcing a $3.7 million investment into targeted aged care IPC research.

The funding will facilitate four university led projects under the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC), with the aim of developing evidence-based IPC programs that will "meet the varying needs of both public and private aged care homes across Australia."

NHMRC chief Professor Steve Wesselingh said the outcomes of this targeted research will assist in developing an evidence base upon which existing IPC practices can be adapted and improved sector-wide.

“Infection prevention and control practices that aim to minimise and stop the transmission of infections are critical in all environments," Professor Wesselingh said.

“Our national research efforts must be directed towards adopting an evidence-based approach to infection prevention and control – this will ultimately improve the health and wellbeing of aged care residents and the wider community.”

Surgical site infections (SSI) affect tens of thousands of Australians each year and it is estimated that each readmission caused by a hospital-acquired infection incurs around $40,000 in extra costs, while also adding to workforce shortage pressures already experienced by the industry.

Minister for Aged Care Anika Wells said the health care sector must be proactive when addressing the risk of infection for vulnerable Australians.

“For our aged care sector, we need to remain vigilant on our approach towards infection prevention and control – it is an integral part of quality and safety standard improvement.

“The Government’s approach to improving infection prevention and control in residential aged care homes is actively driven by the intent of providing care that is patient-centred and of the highest quality.

“Supported IPC leads will deliver consistent, effective prevention and response to infectious diseases in residential aged care homes, protecting our older community.”

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