![Dr. Miller on IP Dr. Miller](https://www.beckersorthopedicandspine.com/images/Dr. Miller.jpg)
1. Many different surgeons. ASCs are used by many different surgeons. Some may have an interest in the center and some may simply use the center to perform procedures, and all will have a busy schedule. Familiarizing the surgeons, not to mention the regular staff of the ASC, with a new infection prevention program can be potentially time consuming. Every new physician and staff member should have infection control included within the orientation program at the center. They should also meet with the director of the infection control program.
2. Many different subspecialties. Many ASCs are multispecialty facilities and each subspecialty is accompanied by specific habits and methods. The variance in surgeon and staff behavior can be difficult to streamline when working toward the execution of a standardized program. If a best practice IC system is in place, the risk of infectious complications is greatly reduced and less susceptible to individual variation among subspecialties. Focus on the system, not the individuals.
![Dr. Chuck Peck on IP Dr. Chuck Peck](https://www.beckersorthopedicandspine.com/images/Dr. Peck.jpg)
4. Consequent infections may involve different healthcare settings. ASCs are required to collect patient complications and hospital admissions related to surgery for their infection control program. However, patients that do acquire an infection at your ASC may not necessarily return for treatment, instead turning to a hospital or different healthcare setting. This can make it difficult to track what infections originated at your ASC and how. The advent of electronic medical records and Regional Health Information Organizations should help alleviate this concern.
More Articles on Infection Control:
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10 Essential Elements for Excellence in ASC Infection Control Programs