MHA does CLABSI right

Here's a great step forward by the Massachusetts Hospital Association, a public presentation  of current data on the rate of central line associated bloodstream infections among its participating members. Here's the current chart:

Let's talk about what's good about this. First, the data are quite current, just a few months old.  Next, the monthly figures, which are subject to minor variations, are smoothed out with a three-month moving average, so you can see the trend.  Third, there are no punches pulled.  When the rate goes up, they say it.

Since each hospital knows it own rate, it can easily compare its progress to others in the state.  N0t for the sake of trying to attract more patients or for other kinds of marketing, but to act as a form of creative tension within the organization to do better. Now, that's the right kind of competition.