The 14 Billion Case for Safety in Healthcare

摘要

Another year, another billion dollar increase in lost-time injury costs for healthcare: 15.9 million healthcare workers continue to record some of the highest injury rates in the nation, costing the industry $14 billion, and at least two million lost work days in 2012. Provider and patient populations continue to grow, and millions of healthcare-associated infections and fatalities each year demonstrate the link between worker and patient safety. Though still relatively few, beginning in 2012 targeted inspections and Regional and National Emphasis programs aim additional inspections at nursing and residential care facilities. Continuing losses in human and economic capital due to injuries make the case for building a safety culture in healthcare.