[Regional Healthcare-associated Infection Network Implementation Report, 2025]

Effective prevention and management of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) are essential to ensure patient safety, reduce medical costs, and improve public health. When infection control systems are insufficient, transmission risks within and between healthcare facilities increase, leading to increased morbidity and mortality, placing strain on the healthcare system. The emergence of multidrug-resistant organisms (e.g., Carbapenem-resistant Enterobacterales), frequent patient transfers, and differences between healthcare facilities in infection control capacity and staffing levels have accelerated disease transmission and community spread. Healthcare facilities with limited resources often struggle to respond promptly and effectively to outbreaks, increasing their vulnerability to cluster infections. The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency launched its "Healthcare-Associated Infectious Disease Prevention and Management Project" in 2017 to support these institutions.

As of 2025, a network of 24 regional healthcare institutions across 17 cities and provinces is providing technical support for infection control. Strong institutions are designated regional hub hospitals, and participating hospitals are recommended by local governments. Coordination meetings, risk assessments, technical consultations, and information sharing have been established to improve infection control standards.

This program provides structured support for infection prevention, control, and outbreak response efforts, strengthening vulnerable institutions and building foundational collaborations to prevent HAI spread.

This inter-institutional network enhances regional infectious disease response capacity through collaboration and communication. With continued operation and expansion, it is expected to serve as an effective mechanism for HAI prevention and be a key pillar in patient safety and public health infrastructure.