David Nash, M.D., writes about the relative importance of sticks and carrots in getting hospitals to reduce hospital-acquired infections. Among other things, he cites two studies:

1. “A study of 1,381 U.S. hospitals showed an association between the HAC initiative and significant improvements in CLABSI and catheter-associated urinary tract infections — evidence that better processes yield better outcomes.
2. “Results of a retrospective observational study tracking changes since the nonpayment policy was initiated showed that the incidence of hospital-associated pressure ulcers had decreased significantly among 210 academic medical centers, a clear indication that hospitals are reacting efficiently to economic policy incentives by improving prevention efforts.”