Beyond the obvious business benefits, the reduction in morbidity and mortality through TEM-PCR are expected to be significant nationwide. Hospital-associated infections cause an estimated 48,000 deaths a year in America. "Kettering Health Network is the first hospital system to partner with DIATHERIX, which places them at the forefront of technology that will decrease healthcare costs while enhancing patient care," said Dennis Grimaud, Chairman and CEO DIATHERIX, Inc. "Kettering has proven that they are focused on bringing new innovation to their hospital system, their physicians and patients within their community."

"Based on published studies, active surveillance reduces hospital acquired MRSA infections by as much as 50 percent.  We think you will see many more hospital affiliations with this company in the years to come," said Greg Wise, MD, Vice President for Medical Affairs for Kettering Medical Center.

The recent H1N1 pandemic points up the need for prompt diagnosis, isolation and treatment for such pathogens. "Identifying the organism is vital to making an accurate diagnosis," said Catherine Bacheller, MD, Medical Director of Infection Prevention and Control. "Illnesses caused by resistant bacteria can be treated more quickly and aggressively, with better outcome for the patient and less potential for the spread of infection to others."

SOURCE DIATHERIX