C.DIFF CASES HALVED UNDER SNP GOVERNMENT

C.DIFF CASES HALVED UNDER SNP GOVERNMENT

BAILLIE CHALLENGED ON LABOUR’S RECORD

The number of c.difficile cases amongst the over 65’s has fallen by 55% since 2007 under the SNP Government.

New figures released today show the dramatic decline in c.diff numbers across the country from 1775 cases between January and March 2007 to 805 cases in the most recent quarter.

SNP MSP Dr Ian McKee said the figures showed the success of the SNP Government’s approach and exposed the hypocrisy of Labour politicians who presided over the record high number of infections.

Dr McKee, a member of the Health Committee said:

“Today’s figures show the dramatic impact the SNP’s focus on tackling hospital acquired infection has had.

“After climbing to over 1700 cases under Labour c.diff rates amongst the over 65’s have fallen 55% under the SNP.

“To more than halve c.diff rates in less than 3 years is a significant achievement. It is time opposition politicians accepted the achievements of the SNP Government and the NHS, the work of the health secretary and the real improvement in standards in Scotland’s hospitals under the SNP after their years of neglect.

“Every case is a concern but the rapid fall in cases over the last two three years is a testament to the hard work of the NHS and the Health secretary.

“Investment in tackling HAI’s, bringing cleaning back into the public sector and establishing the Healthcare Environment Inspectorate are all key steps taken by Nicola Sturgeon to cut c.diff rates across Scotland.

“There is always more to do and I know NHS staff will continue their efforts to tackle hospital acquired infections.”