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The tangible cost implications of a hospital outbreak of multiply-resistant Salmonella
S Barnass1, M O'Mahony, P N Sockett
1Department of Medical Microbiology, St Bartholomew's Hospital, West Smithfield, London.
Abstract:
A hospital outbreak of multiply-resistant Salmonella heidelberg infection, which affected 17 patients and 2 staff, is described. The tangible cost of the outbreak was estimated at 21 pounds 151, 17 pounds 989 (85.1%) of which was borne by the hospital. The cost to the Microbiology Department was 3596 pounds (17.0% of the total). A detailed analysis of the costs and implications for staffing disruption is given and a comparison is made with the costs of preventive activities. Ways of containing expenses in the event of an outbreak and the economic implications for clinical budgeting and privatization of the laboratory service are considered.
Insights
A multiply-resistant Salmonella Heidelberg outbreak cost the hospital over 21,000 pounds. This study analyzes outbreak expenses and suggests cost-saving strategies for future hospital infections.
Area of Science:
- Healthcare Management
- Infectious Disease Epidemiology
- Public Health Economics
Background:
- Hospital-acquired infections pose significant financial burdens.
- Multiply-resistant bacterial infections, such as Salmonella Heidelberg, present unique challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify the tangible costs of a specific hospital outbreak of multiply-resistant Salmonella Heidelberg.
- To analyze the economic impact on different hospital departments and staff.
- To compare outbreak costs with preventive measures and discuss cost-containment strategies.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective cost analysis of a documented hospital outbreak.
- Categorization of costs including direct expenses and staffing disruption.
- Comparison of outbreak-related expenditures with estimated costs of preventative interventions.
Main Results:
- The outbreak incurred tangible costs of 21,151 pounds, with 85.1% borne by the hospital.
- The Microbiology Department's cost was 3,596 pounds (17.0% of total).
- Significant implications for staffing and clinical budgeting were identified.
Conclusions:
- Hospital outbreaks of multiply-resistant pathogens are economically costly.
- Effective cost-containment strategies and robust infection control are crucial for minimizing financial impact.
- Economic considerations are vital for clinical budgeting and laboratory service management, especially in contexts of privatization.