Infection control in hospitals: has its quality-enhancing and cost-effective role been appreciated?

A review of data from surveys worldwide, including the United Kingdom and the United States, or morbidity and mortality and costs incurred as direct consequences of hospital-acquired infection is presented. These data testify to the role of hitherto somewhat undervalued Infection Control in hospitals as a key factor in the quality of medical care and also establish its contribution towards cost-effectiveness in various health care systems, including the National Health Service in the UK (NHS). It is appropriate, therefore, for Infection Control to be accorded proper appreciation and adequate funding. The achievement of these aims is likely to be helped by the recent changes in the NHS management system and supported by the requirements of Medical Audit and Hospital Accreditation Schemes.