Rates of both C. difficile and MRSA are now at their lowest ever levels in Scotland, according to a report published by Health Protection Scotland.
The figures, for January to March 2011, show that Scotland has exceeded the challenge of a 50% reduction in C. difficile rates for over 65s, by delivering a 71% decrease. The target was set by the Health Secretary in March 2010 after good progress was made on the official target of 30%. Commenting on the figures, health secretary, Nicola Sturgeon said: “Today’s figures clearly show that our strenuous efforts and zero tolerance approach to superbugs are reaping significant rewards. NHS Boards have not only met the extra C. difficile target I set – they have outdone it. I would like to congratulate them on all their hard work. There is no room for complacency and everyone must remain vigilant to ensure that case numbers continue to fall. “Maintaining this progress will be challenging but it is essential that we do just that. Patients need to have confidence that they will receive top quality care in our NHS.” A range of initiatives have been introduced to tackle HCAIs in Scotland. These include increased funding. There has also been investment in the three years to 2011 to support delivery of an MRSA screening programme that was rolled out across all of the NHS and additional funds will being provided to support boards in implementing a new minimum screening policy by March 2012. A Healthcare Environment Inspectorate has also been introduced to scrutinise the healthcare environment and promote greater public confidence in the NHS.
