2021-4-HW (Link to Article):  Problem: COVID-19 Hospital-Acquired Infections.
 "HSJ analyzed England’s National Health Service Data regarding hospital-acquired SARS-CoV-2 infections. SARS-CoV-2 is the virus that causes COVID-19 and unfortunately HSJ found that hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) are not uncommon, estimated to cause almost 1 in 4 hospital COVID-19 cases. We need to have mandatory reporting of worker and patient acquisition of SARS-CoV-2 and the development of COVID-19 with metrics to provide us the most accurate estimate of cases so we can effectively plan and allocate resources.." References  Infection Control Today. Jan. 20, 2021.   

2021-3-HW (Link to Article):  As Vaccine Rollout Stalls, Move Monoclonal Antibodies Into COVID Fight.
 "As of January 16, 2021, only 39.4% of the 31.2 million allocated vaccine doses have been placed in arms. The original goal was to vaccinate 20 million citizens by the end of 2020. Until vaccines become widely available, it is imperative that those at high risk for severe COVID-19 be offered monoclonal antibody therapy. So far, the use of monoclonal antibodies has not been a priority in the United States’ COVID-19 response, and the medication has largely gone unused, with 80% of the 600,000 doses still “sitting on shelves.” Monoclonal antibodies need to be given within 3 days of diagnosis and to those who are at high risk for severe COVID-19. To locate a facility, the Dept. of Health and Human Services has posted a medication locator at: https://combatcovid.hhs.gov/  Then click on the "Find Infusion Locations" screen button." References  Infection Control Today. Jan. 17, 2021.   

2021-2-HW (Link to Article):  With the coronavirus mutating and vaccinations behind schedule, here's what we must do now.
 "Infection preventionists need to spread the message and articulate the uncertainties of this new variant of COVID-19. They need to emphasize that it is just not the old who are at risk and employ stricter containment measures......   Many health departments are understaffed. In one Kentucky Public Health District, staffing has been cut almost in half over the last decade. Our stressed healthcare system has an inadequate infrastructure to administer the initial vaccine dose, let alone doubling the effort to administer the second dose." References  USA Today. Jan. 9, 2021.   

Courier Journal:  https://www.courier-journal.com/story/opinion/2021/01/08/with-coronavirus-vaccinations-behind-schedule-heres-what-us-must-do/6557584002/  

 Yahoo News:   https://news.yahoo.com/coronavirus-mutating-vaccinations-behind-schedule-120015673.html  

Kaiser Healthcare News Morning Briefing:  https://khn.org/morning-breakout/viewpoints-bring-back-science-trump-took-away-from-advisory-committees-create-a-real-vaccination-plan/ 

2021-1-HW (Link to Article):  COVID-19 Variants Make Infection Prevention Harder.
 "Infection preventionists need to spread the message and articulate the uncertainties of this new variant of COVID-19. They need to emphasize that it is just not the old who are at risk and employ stricter containment measures......   Many health departments are understaffed. In one Kentucky Public Health District, staffing has been cut almost in half over the last decade. Our stressed healthcare system has an inadequate infrastructure to administer the initial vaccine dose, let alone doubling the effort to administer the second dose." References  Infection Control Today. Jan. 4, 2021.   

2020-51-HW (Link to Article):  Vaccines Should Work Against New COVID-19 Strain.
 "We must treat this strain with the respect it deserves, but we must not panic. There is no doubt that increased infectivity equates with increases in deaths, but it does not mean the vaccines will not work. It is imperative that we follow public health advice. Just remember what happened to the snow leopards in the Louisville Zoo, they are exceptionally good at enforcing social distancing, but not so good at wearing masks. They caught COVID-19. Thus, you must do both. And be steadfast, since we have to slow down the spread of SARS-CoV-2, so the viruses natural production laboratory does not outstrip the capacity of our pharmaceutical giants." References  Infection Control Today. Dec. 22, 2020.   

2020-50-HW (Link to Article):  Viewpoint: Monitoring Systems Track COVID Vaccine Reactions.
 "V-Safe and VAERS are 2 monitoring systems for patients who are given a COVID-19 vaccine. Infection preventionists can play a vital role in educating about the strengths and drawbacks of each. However, questions remain. We do not know how long immunity will last, if those vaccinated can become infectious as an asymptomatic carrier, or how the vaccine affects special populations such as those who are pregnant, very young or immunosuppressed." Infection Control Today. Dec. 15, 2020.   

2020-49-HW (Link to Article):  COVID-19 Vaccine? Hurry Up and Wait.
 "At last, the vaccines are here! Or are they? There appears to be a shortfall, not enough to initially vaccinate even all of the frontline healthcare workers and nursing home residents against coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). By some estimates only about 20% of the expected doses will be available by year�s end. Shortages can more easily be corrected, than the combating of anti-vaxxer misinformation. However recent polls have been reassuring, with those willing to take the COVID-19 vaccine increasing to 63%. Infection preventionists are an important component of this effort and need to actively articulate to both patients and on social media the need to be vaccinated and to follow public health advice."  References  Infection Control Today. Dec. 10, 2020.   

2020-48-HW (Link to Article):  In Battling COVID-19, Government Needs to Engage, Not Fight With Religious Communities.
 "Public health strategists should realize these rulings set a template for a unified national strategy that is not perverted by economic or political interests. New York City, the genesis of the Supreme Court Case, closed schools and allowed bars and restaurants to remain open, which made little sense. And many in Kentucky question the wisdom of closing schools with sporting events remaining open. All of this is creating unnecessary public confusion, eroding faith in our public health institutions and most importantly ineffectively controlling the spread of COVID-19."  References  Courier Journal. Dec. 4, 2020.   

2020-47-HW (Link to Article):  We can see a light at the end of the COVID tunnel, but we still have to be diligent.
 "We can now see a light at the end of the tunnel but let�s not brick up the end. We must slow down the transmission of this virus, so nature�s lab does not outpace our pharmaceutical giants. If a safe and effective vaccine is available, please take the vaccine and encourage others to receive it. And wear a mask along with social distancing."  References   Lexington Herald Leader. Nov. 20, 2020.   

2020-46-HW (Link to Article):  Viewpoint: Healthcare Workers Not Being Protected from COVID.
 "Faced with greater than three times the number of cases as the last surge, along with exponential growth with no end in sight, there is little hope healthcare workers can safely treat patients without a drastic change in policy and a more productive and secure supply line."  Infection Control Today. Nov. 15, 2020.    References

2020-45-HW (Link to Article):  Distortion of Science to Inhibit the Adoption of Infectious Disease Strategies.
  "Distortion of science for political and economic ends has prevented the allocation of needed resources to stop the spread of dangerous pathogens. This places all of society as a whole at risk, but exacting an insufferable toll of death and disability on our front-line healthcare workers, along with our most vulnerable populations. COVID-19 has demonstrated how dangerous this scenario has become.
Whether one deals with MRSA or COVID-19, screening and decolonization or self-isolation of healthcare workers is of utmost importance. Their health, the health of their families along with their patients depend upon it."  Biomed Central. Nov. 13, 2020.    References

2020-44-HW (Link to Article):  Will the COVID-19 Pandemic Transform Health Care ?
  "Many lessons have been learned from COVID-19. We have learned that case definitions can be rapidly created and a reporting system which comprises all types of healthcare facilities can be implemented. The same needs to be done for other dangerous pathogens, including the CDC�s Urgent and Serious Threats, and strategies need to be standardized across all types of facilities. SARS-CoV-2 does not vary its lethality or infectivity based upon the facility type or region of the country."  Biomed Central. Nov. 11, 2020.  References

2020-43-HW (Link to Article):  Viewpoint: Quackery Might Stall Progress Against COVID-19  "The worst-case scenario is that if an effective and safe COVID-19 vaccine is found, a large segment of our population will elect to use hydroxychloroquine or another ineffective treatment instead, allowing the virus to continue to thrive, and devastate our nation. As a nation, we can easily defeat this virus, but it requires us to trust modern science and embrace a national strategy coordinated by public health officials and our federal government. Let�s not embrace attitudes and views of the 1800�s."  Infection Control Today. Nov. 6, 2020.  References

2020-42-HW (Link to Article):  To successfully deal with COVID-19, we need to transform our way of life  "It is imperative that we need to take our head out of the sand and unite as a nation. Successfully dealing and living with viruses is the new norm. We need to adapt and need to invest in our infrastructure and transform our society. New Zealand, Australia, Taiwan, China and South Korea have done this, so can the United States."  Courier Journal. Nov. 5, 2020.  References

2020-41-HW (Link to Article):  FDA Panel Reviews Many Challenges Facing a COVID Vaccine "The overall cost for society is far too high for a flawed and relaxed vaccine approval process. If the vaccine has low effectivity and primarily prevents mild disease, it will offer little protection to society and may cause inconceivable harm. To paraphrase Peter Luri, MD, MPH, from the Center for Science in Public Interest�The benefits of a minimally effective vaccine can be negated if the public relaxes wearing masks and social distancing. But even worse, if the vaccine is ineffective, it will further fuel the antivaccine movement for decades to come."  Infection Control Today. October 25, 2020.  References

2020-40-HW (Link to Article):  Viewpoint: The �Not So� Great Barrington Declaration   "Recently, an international group of scientists signed a declaration advocating for achieving herd immunity from coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) by opening communities and business, while protecting the vulnerable with �focused protection.� The Declaration states: �A comprehensive and detailed list of measures, including approaches to multi-generational households, can be implemented, and is well within the scope and capability of public health professionals.� But to be honest, I�m not sure how this can be done.
Currently, the United States is undergoing a third peak of infections on our first wave and the metrics, of cases and test positivity rates are increasing.
For infection preventionists and frontline healthcare workers, the Great Barrington Declaration places their lives and livelihood at risk. A field hospital has been activated in Wisconsin and the state is at risk of running out of hospital beds and trained staff. " Infection Control Today. October 15, 2020.    References

2020-39-HW (Link to Article):  School Daze: COVID-19 Spreads Fear, Confusion   "Opening schools should depend upon low rates of viral spread in the community, widespread testing, rigorous following of public health guidelines, and upgrading the physical infrastructure of our buildings. Our schools are anything but healthy buildings.18 Concerns have existed for decades regarding both the air quality and the crowded conditions our children are exposed to. COVID-19 should be viewed as an opportunity for transformation, allowing us to build a better school system with smaller class sizes for better education and implement strategies to prevent the spread of all infectious diseases" Infection Control Today. October, 2020.

2020-38-HW (Link to Article):  Trick or Treat � or COVID-19? Yes it is Airborne?   "Traditional trick or treating is viewed as a high-risk-activity by the CDC. Of course, we all knew Halloween would be problematic. An important caveat for Halloween is not to use your Halloween mask to prevent the spread of coronavirus. It will offer very little protection. These recommendations contain many important lessons both for Halloween and how we should be living our lives in general. And Yes it is Airborne." Infection Control Today. Sept. 28, 2020.   Oct. 8, 2020 Article Update

2020-37-HW (Link to Article):  Eli Lilly Neutralizing Antibodies: Breakthrough for COVID-19 Treatment?   "Eli Lilly announced preliminary results to their SARS-CoV-2 neutralizing antibody product, LY-CoV555, which was reported to have spectacular results with a 72% decrease in hospitalizations or ER visits when mildly or moderately symptomatic patients are given the drug within 3 days of diagnosis.
As observed in the Eli Lilly study, those newly diagnosed patients who are obese or have advanced age are the most likely to become hospitalized, and I feel initially this innovative product should be targeted toward these high-risk patients." Infection Control Today. Sept. 17, 2020.  

2020-36-HW (Link to Article):  Taking Aim at Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria During COVID - A review of the Fall 2020 PACCARB Meeting.
"Patients afflicted with COVID-19 have an increased susceptibility to antibiotic resistant infections both from prolonged hospitalizations and the use of immunocompromising agents such as dexamethasone." Infection Control Today. Sept. 15, 2020.  

2020-35-HW (Link to Article):  Is COVID-19 Primarily a Heart and Vascular Diseases?
"Thus, the once thought asymptomatic patients who luckily dodged a bullet and were spared from the ravages of the disease, may indeed be truly sick. A significant portion of them may develop myocarditis along with vascular vasodilation with resultant hypoxemia. This pathological process could easily be more significant than the pulmonary effects of the virus, since it is present in both symptomatic and asymptomatic patients. And could explain the debilitating symptoms of fatigue and mental fog which �long-haulers� are experiencing, many of which had a mild initial illness." Infection Control Today. Sept. 8, 2020.  

2020-34-HW (Link to Article):  Viewpoint: Infection Preventionist Guide to Dealing with COVID Misinformation.
"It is imperative that infection preventionists engage and combat this messaging on social media and wherever it occurs. To not do so, allows misinformation to fan the pandemic, placing all of our lives at risk."
After one leave retorts to the misinformation, "you will notice that you have numerous exchanges with one individual. That this individual has left a junkyard full of highly complex and intwined web of misinformation. Yet for all of this work, when you go to the troll�s home page, it will most likely be blank. This tells you may be dealing with a professional. If the troll responded to you throughout the entire day, he may well be on a payroll." Infection Control Today. Sept. 7, 2020.  

2020-33-HW (Link to Article):  Our nation needs to learn how to live safely with the coronavirus.
As our society continues to live in a way that defies public health logic, one can only conclude the infectivity and lethality of this virus is being severely underappreciated by our leaders. An underappreciation exemplified by Kentucky Sen. Rand Paul�s recent push for a policy of opening all schools and having only those at risk wear masks.  We need to approach this pandemic not with third-world nation strategies but by expanding rapid testing and case identification, along with transforming our infrastructure and society to allow us to safely live with this virus.  Courier Journal. Aug. 26, 2020.   References

2020-32-HW (Link to Article):  The 2020 Flu: Dud or Devastation, It is Up To You.
This year we have to do more than just rely on the flu vaccine. Avoiding the flu plus COVID-19 catastrophe is contingent on the US widely embracing public health guidance of wearing masks, meticulous hand hygiene and social distancing. If one looks at the data from the CDC, the flu became almost nonexistent in the United States by the end of March, with a very steep drop-off in cases. The World Health Organization (WHO) data from the Southern Hemisphere is even more surprising. Summer is their peak Flu season. But unlike previous years no viral specimens were submitted to the WHO from many countries during the Summer months.  Infection Control Today. Aug. 18, 2020.  

2020-31-HW (Link to Article):  Infection Preventionists Might be Needed in Schools.
"Similar to our healthcare system as a whole, COVID-19 is shedding a light on deficiencies and the dearth of personal safeguards in our schools. Let us not forget, schools are a nidus for spreading the flu and other diseases. Opening schools should depend upon low rates of viral spread in the community, widespread testing, rigorous following of public health guidelines and upgrading the physical infrastructure of our buildings. COVID-19 should be viewed as an opportunity for transformation, allowing us to build a better school system with smaller class sizes for better education and implement strategies to prevent the spread of all infectious diseases."  Infection Control Today. Aug. 10, 2020.  

2020-30-HW (Link to Article):  New Study: Hydroxychloroquine Works in Monkeys, Not Humans.
"Thus, at this point, there is no compelling evidence to recommend the use of hydroxychloroquine for clinical use and several large organizations have suspended research involving this drug. There has been an enormous amount of valuable scientific resources which have been devoted to answering this scientific, now political, issue. These resources would have been better spent on more promising treatment modalities, such as studying Camostat mesilate or nafamostat mesylate therapy for COVID-19, a compound which has been shown to block TMPRSS2."  Infection Control Today. Aug. 3, 2020.  

2020-29-HW (Link to Article):  National Reporting System for All Dangerous Pathogens Needed.
"After decades of reluctance to implement a national reporting system, when COVID-19 came along we witnessed almost overnight the formulation of case definitions and comprehensive national reporting from all healthcare facilities.  A dangerous pathogen is a dangerous pathogen; we should not discriminate on our approach to COVID-19. The frequency of an outbreak should not be used to deter a policy that an outbreak of a dangerous contagious pathogen should be publicly reported in real time. The nursing home reporting policies for COVID-19 need to be adopted systemwide for all dangerous pathogens and our infrastructure permanently enhanced."  Infection Control Today. July 20, 2020.  

2020-28-HW (Link to Article):  On COVID-19, the U.S. is turning into a dangerous cult of bad information.
"Some of us formed into online cliques and developed a Jonestown cult mentality in our approach to American life. Added to the toxic mix, foreign agitation placed us on the precipice of one of the greatest ordeals which our society may endure � COVID-19. A study from Carnegie Mellon University found almost half the tweets regarding the coronavirus are likely bots with a playbook similar to Chinese and Russian disinformation campaigns. Reuters reported similar findings, describing a European Union document which concluded Russia implemented an online misinformation campaign, in multiple languages, which was making the EU�s response to the epidemic difficult."  Lexington Hearld Leader. July 8, 2020.   References

2020-27-HW (Link to Article):  Viewpoint: Despite Happy Talk, We�re Far From Out of the COVID Woods."COVID-19 cases in many states have risen and the false narrative is that this is because of increased testing. But the rise in cases far outstrips the rise in testing... the young are not shielded from the viruses� devastating effects. We need to take this pandemic seriously, the public needs to wear masks and practice social distancing. As stated by Avindra Nath, MD, the senior investigator at the Section of Infections of the Nervous System at National Institutes of Health: �It�s quite possible some will never get their health back." " Infection Control Today. June 22, 2020.  

2020-26-HW (Link to Article):  If we don't come together as a nation, the coronavirus will win the battle"Currently, society is struggling on two fronts, both for social justice and at the same time to control a raging epidemic. The epidemic of COVID-19 may be with us for a long time. And those who try to minimize it are doing so by placing front-line workers and economically disadvantaged populations at risk.  We are opening our economy, but we need to do so safely, and we need to learn to live with this virus. That means wearing masks in public and in stores, social distancing and protecting, not fighting others.  While we fight for social justice, it is imperative that at the same time we need to slow the spread of this virus, so our technology and vaccine development can catch up.  References  Courier Journal. June 16, 2020.  

2020-25-HW (Link to Article):  COVID-19 Experience Suggests Need for National Reporting System for Dangerous Pathogens"It is of utmost importance to screen healthcare staff and patients for dangerous pathogens along with the establishment of a national tracking system. The nursing home reporting policies for COVID-19 need to be adopted system wide for all dangerous pathogens and our infrastructure permanently enhanced.  IPs need to document their experiences and keep telling their stories so our memories of this horrific ordeal do not fade." Infection Control Today. June 6, 2020.  

2020-24-HW (Link to Article):  Reopening After COVID-19 Needs to be Done Carefully (Interview).
"Kevin Kavanagh, MD, the board chairman of the patient advocacy group Health Watch USA^sm, talks to Infection Control Today about the perils of reopening too quickly and the value of cloth masks. "What worries me the most about reopening is that people are going to say, 'Oh, it's over with' and not do any sort of protection, whether it's social distancing, wearing masks, not gathering in crowds. I really think that people will think, 'Well, we got this beat.'"  Infection Control Today. May 28, 2020.  

2020-23-HW (Link to Article):  Why the Public Should Wear Masks During the COVID-19 Pandemic.
"Initially, the public was advised not to wear masks. However, this was before the importance of asymptomatic transmission was known. Recent studies have also underscored the growing importance of person-to-person transmission through the air. Guidance changed. It is now recommended for the public to wear cotton masks. This guidance is not intended to protect the wearer, but to help prevent the wearer from spreading the virus to others if they are an unknown asymptomatic carrier."  Infection Control Today. May 27, 2020. 

2020-22-HW (Link to Article):  When COVID-19 Knocks on Nursing Homes� Doors, Systemic Problems Welcome It.
"Despite nursing homes becoming a nidus of multi-drug resistant organisms (MDROs), the regulations for staffing infection preventionists (IPs) at nursing homes are far too lax. Nursing homes should have a full-time IP. Presently the regulations only specify a part-time IP without a specific required time commitment. In view of the large number of nursing home residents and the high drug-resistant carriage rate, a full-time position is certainly needed."  Infection Control Today. May 7, 2020. 

2020-21-HW (Link to Article):  Viewpoint: COVID-19 Modeling: Lies, Damn Lies and Statistics.
"We have now received our fourth projection on deaths. I'm not sure if it will be right or wrong, but the others have proven to not be correct, so I'm not hopeful for this one. That is actually good news because the last projection doubles the number of expected deaths to 134,475 by Aug 4, 2020." Infection Control Today. May 6, 2020.  Infection Control Today. May 6, 2020. 

2020-20-HW (Link to Article):  Viewpoint: Have You Heard About the Herd? It�s a COVID-19 Fallacy.  "Strategies of social distancing, not gathering in large crowds, wearing masks and protecting those at increased risk are required to manage this epidemic.Returning to life as usual with the dependence on herd immunity in a non-vaccinated population to control spread is almost certainly a false narrative." Infection Control Today. April 29, 2020. 

2020-19-HW (Link to Article):  Healthcare system�s basic infrastructure left it unprepared for COVID-19.  "Hospitals are receiving massive bailouts based upon their Medicare billings. However, this will primarily shunt money to large healthcare systems as opposed to frontline hospitals. Similar, to everyday citizens' stimulus checks, hospital bailouts should be based upon need. Non-profits with high net assets should not receive as much funds as frontline hospitals with negative assets. If for-profit facilities or private equity firms receive a bailout, it should be paid back with interest or the Government should acquire an equity position in the company. And all of this should be predicated on not furloughing workers." Lexington Herald Leader. April 27, 2020.   References

2020-18-HW (Link to Article):  Lessons of the Hydroxychloroquine Debacle: Solid COVID-19 Research Matters.  "In the new reality of making decisions with limited and incomplete data, it is important that decision makers and scientists are free from biases.17 Biases can be financial and even geopolitical pressure created by the huge trade war and divisive rhetoric between the United States and China. In a time of great national fear and stress, we must be careful in both reporting and interpreting messaging, including the results of unconfirmed research. Let�s not repeat the mistakes of HCQ for unproven benefits, since these are powerful drugs which may also cause harm." Infection Control Today. April 17, 2020. 

2020-17-HW (Link to Article):  Viewpoint: CDC's Changing Guidance Underscores How COVID-19 Keeps Winning  "Needless to say, additional PPE is desperately needed, hopefully both increased manufacturing and sterilization techniques will relieve the shortage. In addition, the strategy adopted by New York State to designate some facilities to exclusively treat COVID-19 patients and others for non-COVID-19 patients to help improve patient safety should be adopted in other areas of the nation.  We must make protecting our frontline healthcare workers and patients a priority." Infection Control Today. April 15, 2020. 

2020-16-HW (Link to Article):  Viewpoint: As COVID-19 Spreads, Where's All the Money Hospitals Have Made?"There is no excuse for running a system which is lean on hospital rooms, supplies and staff. Net-profits and assets are desirable, but not at the expense of public safety. Hospital staff are being asked to see patients under draconian conditions and at the same time they do not have an adequate economic and healthcare safety net. Healthcare workers do not need paid sick leave, they need adequate PPE and worker's compensation benefits, if they become infected. IPs are placing both themselves and their families' lives at grave risk under the crisis management CDC infectious disease recommendations. That is the very least we can do for them." Infection Control Today. April 7, 2020.   Med Page Today.  April 20, 2020. References   Hospital Financial Filings    Related Radio Segment     

2020-15-HW (Link to Article):  Viewpoint: What To Do About ACE Inhibitors During COVID-19 Pandemic  "Authorities are split on what to do if a person is already on ACE Inhibitors and ARBs. Many in the United States have advocated to stay the course, until more information is known. Switching medications may be difficult at best. At the least, until this controversy can be resolved, if you are on one of these medications one should perform strict social distancing and protect yourself from contracting COVID-19. Staying safe at home is best and follow strict recommendations when contacting the public." Infection Control Today. April 7, 2020.      

2020-14-HW (Link to Article):  Churches Could be the Deadliest Places in the COVID-19 Pandemic  "One may ask: Why am I calling out churches? The answer is asymptomatic spread and aerosolization of the virus from singing." Infection Control Today. April 3, 2020.      

2020-13-HW (Link to Article):  As COVID-19 Knocks on Nursing Homes' Doors, Full-Time Infection Preventionists Needed More Than Ever  "Despite nursing homes becoming a nidus of multi-drug resistant organisms (MDROs), the regulations for staffing infection preventionists (IPs) at nursing homes are far too lax. Nursing homes should have a full-time IP. Presently the regulations only specify a part-time IP without a specific required time commitment. In view of the large number of nursing home residents and the high drug-resistant carriage rate, a full time position is certainly needed." Infection Control Today. March 27, 2020.      

2020-12-HW (Link to Article):  Evidence Continues to Link ACE Inhibitors to Severe COVID-19 Symptoms "There is mounting consensus that ACE inhibitors may be a primary driver of the severe symptoms. The concerns were originally raised in the Lancet. ACE inhibitors up regulate (increase) the ACE2 receptor. This is the receptor the COVID-19 virus uses to attack the lungs."  Infection Control Today. March 26, 2020.      

2020-11-HW (Link to Article):  The United States has squandered resources it needs to fight coronavirus
"The United States is on the verge of being ravaged by an invader which we have far too little resources to confront. New estimates from the United Kingdom are predicting 2.2 million deaths in the United States from an unmitigated coronavirus (COVID-19) epidemic.  In Italy, there are reports of those over 80 not being placed on ventilators. In addition, critical care survivors, including the young, may well develop pulmonary fibrosis, a disabling chronic lung disease." Lexington Herald Leader.   Mar. 24, 2020 (Online).      References

2020-10-HW (Link to Article):  We'll Know We've Won the War Against COVID-19 When...
"Judging when we have won the war against the coronavirus is not simple. The good news is that we have the technology and know-how to confront and substantially mitigate these epidemics. What we have lacked is the willpower to implement this knowledge. If we are unable to rapidly transform our system and correct these flagrant deficiencies, then the worse projections from the Imperial College projections of 2.2 million United States citizen fatalities may come to pass
"Infection Control Today.   Mar. 20, 2020 (Online).

2020-09-HW (Link to Article):  COVID-19: IPs, Other Healthcare Workers at Greater Jeopardy Than Thought
"Of extreme concern, of the 3711 Diamond Princess cruise ship passengers, 634 tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 (the virus which causes COVID-19) and of these 17.9% were asymptomatic and presumably could spread the virus."Infection Control Today.   Mar. 17, 2020 (Online).

2020-08-HW (Link to Article):  Viewpoint: US Woefully Unprepared for COVID-19 Pandemic
"A news commentator made the alarmist statement that we may get to the point where the national guard is escorting patients to a high school gym for placement on ventilators. This is of course a ridiculously misinformed statement since we do not have enough ventilators."  Infection Control Today.   Mar. 11, 2020 (Online).  

2020-07-HW (Link to Article):  Viewpoint: We're Losing the Fight Against COVID-19 So Far
"We seem to be at risk of entering into a blame game and "politicizing" the problems. Our response to this contagion shows severe flaws in our healthcare delivery system. As one government official stated, "We have for whatever reason and there are many good ones, designed a system based on very lean staffing practices based on just-in-time supply chains and purchasing."
Infection Control Today.   Mar. 9, 2020 (Online).

2020-06-HW (Link to Article):  The Untimely Reporting of Drug-Resistant Outbreaks in the United States.   Over the course of the last few decades, the United States has fallen into the dark abyss of secrecy: if truth is inconvenient, just cover it up and don't disclose it. The United States needs to implement mandatory real-time public reporting of the CDC's dangerous biological threats. References  The Center For Disease Dynamics, Economics & Policy.   Mar. 3, 2020 (Online).

2020-05-HW (Link to Article):  Coronavirus is the biggest challenge our healthcare system has faced. Is Kentucky prepared?   In January, I concluded an OpEd with an alarmist statement: "The epidemic of antibiotic resistant organisms may be the final solution to global warming."  We are currently on the precipice of a massive pandemic from the coronavirus (COVID-19). Initial data from China has documented massive economic disruption with a 25 percent drop in carbon emissions.  A sobering observation, but of even more concern when one considers the United States does not have the authoritarian structure and a culture of population control which exists in the Chinese government. According to the CDC, the unknown is when, not if, the epidemic will hit the United States and "severe disruption" of everyday life may occur.  Lexington Herald Leader.   Feb. 27, 2020 (Online).

2020-04-HW (Link to Article):  Infection Preventionists, Hospital Administrators Will Be on Frontlines of Coming COVID-19 Epidemic.  "Preparation for the impending epidemic of the COVID-19 coronavirus is of utmost importance and will place a tremendous strain on our healthcare system that will require coordination between the IPs, administrators and the hospital's board. This impending epidemic underscores the importance of the work that the CDC is undertaking by using surveillance and quarantine strategies to delay entry and slow the spread of this pathogen." Infection Control Today.   Feb. 27, 2020.

2020-03-HW (Link to Article):  As a doctor, I put patient well-being above my personal feelings. Don't pass SB 90.   Medicine is difficult and diverse, and we are destined to encounter conflicts in the management of some patients. We may have strong feelings about them, but we try our best to help because we are doctors and we don't turn away. Kentucky Senate Bill 90 deserves a swift and merciful death.  Lexington Herald Leader.   Feb. 25, 2020 (Online).  References 

2020-02-HW (Link to Article): A Conversation With Kevin Kavanagh, MD: Infection Preventionists Are Underutilized and Underappreciated (Expanded and Updated).  "At 100% compliance, recent research looking at glove and gown acquisitions of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) indicates that gloves alone stop almost two-thirds of MRSA acquisitions, making hand hygiene a cornerstone of infection control. However, two-thirds control may not be adequate to prevent spread, and in the case of drug-resistant dangerous pathogens, hand hygiene should be viewed as a backup measure, since these pathogens should not be on a healthcare worker's hands in the first place." Infection Control Today.   Jan. 21, 2020.

2020-1-HW (Link to Article): Amid disgrace of U.S. nursing homes lurks epidemic of drug-resistant bacteria. "A recent study in California found that over 50 percent of nursing home residents harbor dangerous antibiotic resistant bacteria. Unfortunately, there are few regulations which safeguard the health and well-being of either the facility's residents or the nursing home's staff. It needs to be remembered that these resistant bacteria do not care about policy and politics, they are out to win. And unless we decisively act, the prophetic tragedy predicted by several commentators in a La Times OpEd may come true. The epidemic of antibiotic resistant organisms may be the final solution to global warming."  Lexington Herald Leader.   Jan. 16, 2020.

2019-10-HW (Link to Article): A Conversation With Kevin Kavanagh, MD: Infection Preventionists Are Underutilized and Underappreciated. The CDC estimates (at a minimum) that 35,000 individuals die each year from resistant organisms with another 12,800 patients dying from C. difficile. This does not count the long-term disability many of the survivors will endure. The United Kingdom's Wellcome Trust report estimated that by 2050 antibiotic resistance will have a cumulative cost to the world of $100 trillion dollars and 10 million lives will be lost each year.  Infection Control Today.   Dec. 15, 2019.

2019-9-HW (Link to Article): Healthcare may not be a right but it is a necessity for society. Almost everyone is worried about healthcare. Kentuckians are pushing for reforms on a state level, but state administrations have limited ability to transform our system, since so much of the framework is mandated and fixed in stone by either federal law or federal dollars. Thus, lets promote a healthy Kentucky. If universal healthcare is not a right, it is a necessity, not just for the individual but for Kentucky's society as a whole.  Lexington Herald Leader.  Nov. 15, 2019.

2019-8-HW (Link to Article): Data for Action, Not Complacency, is Needed to Stop Dangerous Pathogens.  Economic and political forces in the United States are impeding the adoption of these important infection control tenets. But, as the toll of drug resistance on American citizens mounts, denials will become harder to make, and political policy may well merge with science. Hopefully, not too late..   The Center For Disease Dynamics, Economics & Policy  July 22, 2019.

2019-7-HW (Link to Article): From plague to parrot fever, history shows inequity of medical care. Don�t let it continue.  In the 1980s many of us witnessed the near lack of concern and urgency in the AIDs epidemic because it was initially perceived that it affected only a small minority group whom many disliked and who were easy to discriminate against.  Lexington Herald Leader July 8, 2019.

2019-6-HW (Link to Article): The changing narrative of MRSA infection control in the United States.  But of utmost importance, we need to protect our healthcare workers who may well be acting as reservoirs to spread these pathogens to patients and their families. Biomed Central.  June 19, 2019.

2019-5-HW (Link to Article): Collective ignorance and government timidity are public health threats.  I am a firm believer that we must learn from history or be doomed to repeat it. Unfortunately, the United States and many other nations appear not to have learned this lesson with regard to public health and are heading down a dangerous path.  Los Angeles Times.  May 16, 2019.

Kaiser Healthcare News

2019-4-HW (Link to Letter): Bevin's misery for his nine children is not necessarily over.  They are now at risk for shingles in later life. Shingles results from reactivation of the chickenpox virus. The misery can last from weeks to even years in people who develop complications.  Lexington Herald Leader.  Publication Online Mar. 29, 2019.

2019-3-HW (Link to Article):  News on hospital infections in Kentucky, nationally is not good. What needs to change?
"Instead of mathematically massaging the numbers lets institute additional interventions which other institutions have used successfully."  Lexington Herald Leader.  Publication Online Mar. 8, 2019.

2019-2-HW (Link to Article):  Patients now have more information about hospital prices, but will need patience to sort it out
"Posting of the hospital's sticker prices in an accessible understandable format is a social responsibility that all hospitals should willingly undertake."  Lexington Herald Leader.  Publication Online Feb. 25, 2019.

2019-1-HW (Link to Article):  Arguments for medical review panels unjustified
"We the people -- we the patients -- deserve health policy shaped by facts, not rhetoric reflecting fears and fantasies. Let's work together to solve real problems within health care in Kentucky. Melissa Clarkson is a member of Health Watch USA^sm and an assistant professor of biomedical informatics at the University of Kentucky."  Lexington Herald Leader.  Publication Online Jan. 4, 2019.   Print Jan. 7, 2019.

2018-5-HW (Link to Article):  Patients have few remedies for spiraling health-care costs, but here are a few tips.  "It is fair to say that all of us have had experience with skyrocketing health-care costs and are astonished that this situation is allowed to continue. Policymakers seem to have an insurmountable inertia. The conclusion: the United States spends almost twice as much on health-care than other developed nations but has similar health-care utilization. Although, commonly blamed, this is not the patient's fault."  Lexington Herald Leader.  Publication Online Nov. 27, 2018.   Print Dec. 3, 2018.

2018-4-HW (Link to Article):  Politics is Protecting Pathogens, Not Patients.  "The current United States government is still relying on the widely held misconception that the health-care industry is in a competitive market and will improve its quality because of market pressures.  At the same time, access to health-care quality information -- essential to consumers' choice -- is under attack."  Lexington Herald Leader.  Sept. 21, 2018.  

2018-3-HW (Link to Article):  How to choose a hospital (spoiler: it's not getting any easier).  "Even in Kentucky's leading hospitals, infections rates are alarming, which makes it even harder for patients to be smart consumers."  Lexington Herald Leader.  June. 1, 2018.  

2018-2-HW (Link to Article):  'Roseanne' reflects how much opioid use is now engrained.  "I know from studying the science and personal experience that prescription narcotics are not an effective treatment for chronic pain.  Yet, narcotic usage has become rampant and even trivialized as a laugh line on the "Roseanne" reboot .."  Lexington Herald Leader.  April. 13, 2018.

2018-1-HW (Link to Article):  Survival tips in the age of drug-resistant bacteria.  "There is a war going on, reminiscent of a zombie apocalypse. The insidious agent is spread easily between people, a bite is not required. It does not turn its captors into mindless killing drones but instead, when they least expect it, they are slowly eaten from the inside out. The apocalypse is called drug-resistant bacteria and, so far, modern medicine is failing miserably at stopping it."  Lexington Herald Leader.  Dec. 29, 2017. (Print Publication: Jan. 13, 2018)

2017-5-HW (Link to Article):   Kentucky doctor says Medicare-style plan could curb costs, empower consumers (Print Title:  "The fix: Revive competition to cut health costs").  "The answer to healthcare reform is simple, you must lower health care costs. Either instill true provider competition or give more power to the purchasers with a variation of a single-payer system. In our present political climate, a pragmatic solution may be Medicare-Advantage-For-All."  Lexington Herald Leader.  Oct. 20, 2017.

2017-4-HW (Link to Article):   Shoddy research, deadly results.  "(The problem of Conflicts of interest) is of paramount importance. Research is the foundation for treatment protocols and health policy. A murky fog has descended over what works and what does not."  Lexington Herald Leader.  July. 30, 2017.    

2017-3-HW (Link to Article):   The incidence of MRSA infections in the United States: is a more comprehensive tracking system needed?  "If MRSA is being spread by the hands of healthcare workers, then their hands must at one time have become contaminated with MRSA and there must have been a failure of containment and control, which should be viewed as our frontline intervention. "  BioMed Central.  On Health.  Mar. 10, 2017.    

2017-2-HW (Link to Article):   Hospitals, doctors must come clean when patients are harmed.  "There is room for improvement in patient safety in every facility, even in higher-functioning ones. As stated by Jim Conway, past senior vice president of Institute for Healthcare Improvement, 'In the gap between excellence and perfection, there is suffering, harm, tragedy and death.' "  Lexington Herald Leader.  Mar. 5, 2017.   References 

2017-1-HW (Link to Article):   Choosing a hospital? Read this first.  So how did the hospitals do? In the Lexington region, they overall have improved.  Lexington Herald Leader.  Feb. 2, 2017.  References

Coverage by Kentucky Health News  http://kyhealthnews.blogspot.com/2017/02/comparing-rankings-that-compare-ky.html

2016-4-HW (Link to Article):   Drug industry's quest for profits yields superbugs.  The next bailout: Big Pharma  now asking for tax dollars to fund new antibiotics.  Lexington Herald Leader.  Sep. 24, 2016.   References

2016-3-HW (Link to Article):    US Health Reform Now Needs Reforming   We spent $24,691 for each family on healthcare--almost half of the average family income of $54,000.  Lexington Herald Leader.  Aug. 20, 2016.   References

2016-2-HW (Link to Article):    Non-profit hospitals an oxymoron (Healthcare Rendition)   Kentucky Hospital Charges and Those In the Nation are Far Too High.  Lexington Herald Leader.  May 20, 2016.   References

2016-1-HW (Link to Article):    Buyer beware: no return, redo in hospital care   Kentucky Hospital Rankings by Major Hospital Ranking Organizations, Including CMS (Medicare)  Lexington Herald Leader.  Jan. 16, 2016.   
Download Expanded Ranking Table        References

2015-6-HW (Link to Article):    Needed: Greater Surveillance, New Norms in the Fight Against Antibiotic Resistance  The 21st Century Cures Act needs to assure effective antibiotic stewardship and Antibiotic Resistant Organism Surveillance  Center for Disease Dynamics, Economics and Policy.  Oct. 8, 2015.     

2015-5-HW (Link to Article):    Without more monitoring, medical devices will keep harming patients  We all need to encourage Congress to amend the 21st Century Cures Act to assure effective pre-market testing and post-market monitoring of medical devices.
 Lexington Herald Leader.  Aug. 14, 2015.     

2015-4-HW (Link to Article):  hospitals should act as Ky. falls on key infection ranking. One of the most prevalent superbugs is MRSA which causes the deadly staph infection. Until recently, Kentucky had one of the highest rates of staph bloodstream infections in the nation. New data from the Centers for Disease Control's National Healthcare Safety Network show that our MRSA bloodstream infection rate has worsened; Kentucky is now dead last among the 50 states in controlling this deadly disease.  Lexington Herald Leader.  June 18, 2015.     

2015-3-HW (Link to Article):  Single-payer health care may emerge as best option. Returning to a free-market system will be more difficult than just saying "repeal Obamacare." Six difficult changes would have to be made to create a free market.  Lexington Herald Leader.  May 16, 2015.     

2015-2-HW (Link to Article):  Health-care non-profits may not be what they seem. Profits soar Yet cost is the often repeated excuse for not doing more to control infections.  Lexington Herald Leader.  Mar. 27, 2015.     

2015-1-HW (Link to Article):  Legislative panel must support more hospital reporting of infection outbreaks.  Lexington Herald Leader.  Jan. 13, 2015.    

2014-7-HW (Link to Article):  How Ebola reveals scary gaps in U.S. health care.  Lexington Herald Leader.  Oct. 12, 2014.   

2014-6-HW (Link to Article):  Beshear moving to protect Kentuckians from health-care associated infections.  Lexington Herald Leader.  Sept. 15, 2014.   

2014-5-HW (Link to Article):  Use Hospital Rankings to Help Stay Out of Harm's Way.  Lexington Herald Leader.  Aug. 10, 2014.    Download Complete Expanded Table

2014-4-HW (Link to Article):  VA lesson: defend and deny bad health policy.  Lexington Herald Leader.  Jun. 22, 2014.  View Op-Ed References   More on Full Disclosure - Steve Kraman

2014-3-HW (Link to Article):  Overuse of antibiotics aids attacks of deadly bacteria.  Lexington Herald Leader.  Mar. 13, 2014.

2014-2-HW (Link to Article):  Book Review - The American Health Paradox.  Louisville Courier Journal.  Mar. 13, 2014.

2014-1-HW (Link to Article):  Mandate reporting of Ky. health-care related infections.  Lexington Herald Leader.  Mar. 13, 2014.

2013-8-HW (Link to Article):  Surcharge on smokers under Ky. health reform is unfair, shortsighted.  Lexington Herald Leader.  Sep. 5, 2013.

Lexington Herald Leader Editorial Board:  Pricing smokers out of health care is bad policy. Kentucky's 40 percent surcharge is short-term gain for long-term pain  Sep. 8, 2013. http://www.kentucky.com/opinion/editorials/article44443032.html   

Burchett M.  The Lazer.  State health-insurance exchange plans to make smokers pay 40 percent more for coverage; varied interests object...   Sep. 9, 2013.
 http://www.thelevisalazer.com/news/local-news/8110-many-smokers-could-not-afford-health-insurance-at-all-

2013-7-HW (Link to Article):  Disclosure key to curbing medical errors; UK board should demand it.  Lexington Herald Leader.  Aug 11, 2013.  UK board responsible for hospital safety.

2013-6-HW (Link to Article):   Better monitoring needed in a post-antibiotic era.  Lexington Herald Leader.  July 11, 2013.  The case is made for public reporting of Healthcare Associated Infections and for Engagement of the Health Department.

2013-5-HW (Link to Article):   Tough Diagnosis: Hospital Rankings.  Lexington Herald Leader.  May 12, 2013.  An Op-Ed which describes the various hospital rating systems and give Kentucky Hospital Ratings.  Download PDF of how Kentucky Hospitals do on these rating systems. 

2013-4-HW (Link to Article):  Costs soar when doctors work for hospitals.  Lexington Herald Leader.  April 22, 2013.  The case is made to reduce hospital facility fees.  View Op Ed      View Op-Ed References   

See Shortened Version of the Published in Op-Ed in US News & World Report  
View Op Ed

2013-3-HW (Link to Article):  'Book Review - Bad Pharma'  Courier Journal, Louisville, Ky.   Feb 23, 2013.   Details of Drug Company Tactics.    
View Book Review References
    

2013-2-HW (Link to Article):   More scrutiny on spread of infections; health care industry resists surveillance.  Lexington Herald Leader.  Feb. 11, 2013.   Healthcare Industry Resists Surveillance.   View Op-Ed References

2013-1-HW (Link to Article):  Hospital Facility Fees Raise Out-of-Pocket Costs for Medicare Patients.  US News & World Report.  Jan 11, 2013.  The case is made to reduce hospital facility fees.  View Op Ed    View Op-Ed References  

Opposing Op-Ed from American Hospital Association:  View Op-Ed 

2012-11-HW (Link to Article)  Consumers must scrutinize details of hospital rankings.  Herald Leader Lexington, Ky,  Nov. 7, 2012.  The Quality Measures used in different hospital ranking systems.   View Op-Ed References   

2012-10-HW (Link to Article)  The Changing Role of the Physician.  American College of Surgeons Surgical News,  Oct. 23, 2012.   Changing healthcare governance, fiduciary responsibility and the driving forces behind integration.   View Op-Ed References 

2012-9- HW (Link to Article)  Assessing Changes in Reform.   Courier Journal,  Aug 27, 2012.   Healthcare Consolidation, Integration and Oligopolies are increasing healthcare costs.     View Op-Ed References   View Op-Ed Text

2012-8- HW (Link to Article)  'Book Review:  Rooted in the Mountains, Reaching to the World'.   Courier Journal,  Aug 17, 2012.   The book is more about adventures involving horses shod with ice nails and the forging of swollen streams; about the power and courage of humanity to overcome obstacles, to instill hope.  

2012-7- HW (Link to Article)  'Book Review:  Appalachian Health and Well-Being'.   Courier Journal,  July 14, 2012.   Healthy living challenge for Appalachia.  
  

2012-6-HW (Link to Article)  'Patients dissatisfied with unnecessary, expensive care'.  Herald Leader, Lexington, Ky,  June 25, 2012.  There is a wide variation in the recommended medical care which is received by patients.    View Op-Ed References

2012-5-HW (Link to Article)    'Book Review:  My Father'.   Courier Journal, Louisville,   Jun. 16, 2012.  "One of the most disturbing chapters details the legislative hearings and ill-motivated national politics that have prevented an effective national response, spurring the birth of the consumer advocacy movement to combat hospital-acquired infections."  
 

2012-4-HW (Link to Article)   'Book Review:  The Battle Over Healthcare'.   Courier Journal, Louisville,   May. 19, 2012.    As stated by the Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu, �If you do not change direction, you may end up where you are heading.� Unless we change, we are headed for a health care system that few can afford and few will want.

2012-3-HW (Link to Article)  'A tale of two cows: Why we have a cow map and not a healthcare acquired infection map.   Center for Disease Dynamics, Economics and Policy,   Mar. 13, 2012.  A parody comparing the availability of data between agriculture and healthcare.  View Op-Ed References

Coverage by William Heisel's Antidote: Spotting MRSA & Other Superbugs

Coverage by William Heisel's Antidote: Better Definitions and Better Data

2012-2-HW (Link to Article)  'More doctors controlled by hospitals mean restricted care.   Herald Leader, Lexington, KY,   Mar. 1, 2012.  Healthcare Integration, Medicare Expenditures and the Shrinking Role of Physicians in Healthcare.  View Op-Ed References

See Letter to Editor by Cameron S. Schaeffer, M.D.    http://www.kentucky.com/2012/03/16/2112586/letters-to-editor-march-16.html

2012-1-HW (Link to Article Text)  'Hospital Infections are Underreported.  Courier Journal, Louisville, KY,  Jan. 31, 2012.  The case is made for Public Reporting and Full Disclosure of Adverse Events and Not to Charge Patients for These Events.   View Op-Ed References    Link to Archived Abstract    Link to Article Text

2011-9-HW (Link to Article)  'Don't Tell' Culture a Plague Health Care.  Herald Leader, Lexington, KY,  Dec. 5, 2011.  The case is made for Full Disclosure of Medical Errors.   View Op-Ed References

2011-8-HW (Link to Article)  One in Seven Hospitalizations Results in Harm:  Hospital performance tied to Board Engagement.  Medical News,  Nov. 2011.  View Op-Ed References

2011-7-HW (Link to Article)   Outpatient Antibiotic Utilization Highest in West Virginia and Kentucky  The Center for Disease Dynamics, Economics & Policy.  Washington, DC,  Nov. 17, 2011.  Quoted by Charleston Daily Mail 

2011-6-HW (Link to Article)   Investigate staffing, infection rates at UK hospital  Herald Leader.  Lexington, KY,  Sep. 4, 2011.   

2011-5-HW (Link to Article)   Public, patients have right to know hospitals' infection rates  Herald leader. Lexington, KY,   July 11, 2011.   The case is presented for patients right to know hospital infection rates.

2011-4-HW (Link to Article Text)   Tracking of Hospital Acquired Infections   Courier Journal, Louisville, KY,  Apr. 20, 2011   Norton Healthcare System's Award from the NQF is Outstanding.  Other Kentucky hospitals should follow its example.   Link to Archived Abstract    Link to Article Text

2011-3-HW (Link to Article)  UK Wrong To Downplay Loss of Nursing Honor  Herald Leader, Lexington, KY,  Mar. 21, 2011   It is important for hospitals to achieve the Magnet Recognition and to participate in the Leapfrog Group Survey.

2011-2-HW (Link to Article Text)  Revising Health Care Reform  Courier Journal, Louisville, KY,  Jan. 21, 2011   The healthcare system still has significant problems with increasing insurance premiums.   
 View Op-Ed References    Link to Archived Abstract   Link to Article Text