Hospitals will have to report infections

WASHINGTON, Dec. 27 (UPI) -- U.S. hospital patients' risk of acquiring a potentially fatal infection may go down after parts of healthcare reform go into effect, Consumers Union says.

When parts of the Affordable Care Act go into effect Jan. 1, hospitals will have to track and report to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's National Healthcare Safety Network when patients get central line associated bloodstream infections while in intensive care units.

The Department of Health and Human Services says it will issue a public report next year on the hospital-specific infection rates.

"By requiring public reporting of infection rates, HHS aims to help patients learn more about their hospital's infection control track record and put pressure on hospitals to improve their care," Consumers Union says in a statement.

Studies show one in 10 patients in a U.S. hospital will catch an infection, but hospitals can reduce the number by improving hygiene and technique.

Also in January, the insurance company of an individual or small group policy must spend 80 percent of its premiums on medical care or activities that improve the quality of care -- not administration. Insurers writing large group policies must spend 85 percent on medical care.

Those covered by Medicare will get an annual wellness visit and a personalized prevention plan at no cost to them. Medicare beneficiaries will also be able to get immunizations and screenings for cancer and diabetes without co-pays, Consumers Union says.