For its outstanding commitment to improving patient outcomes across Illinois by optimizing antimicrobial use, Riverside Medical Center has been recognized in the IDPH Acute Care Antimicrobial Stewardship Honor Roll by the Illinois Department of Public Health. Riverside achieved Gold Tier status, and is the only hospital in the region at that level.
Antimicrobial stewardship is a coordinated program to promote the appropriate use of antimicrobials (like antibiotics, antivirals, and antifungals) to improve patient outcomes, reduce antimicrobial resistance, and decrease the spread of resistant infections. It involves using the right drug, at the right dose, for the right duration, to achieve the best patient results while protecting the effectiveness of these medications for the future.
“As an acute care hospital, we take antimicrobial stewardship extremely seriously,” said Riverside Healthcare President and CEO Phil Kambic. “We’re proud to see our hospital and our exceptional pharmacy team recognized at the state level.”
Riverside Medical Center was recognized with Gold Tier status, as the hospital has implemented all key priorities identified by the IDPH, including leadership commitment, accountability, expert pharmaceutical knowledge, tracking and reporting, and education for healthcare providers and patients. Fewer than 20% of all Illinois hospitals have achieved this recognition by implementing all six of the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention’s (CDC) Priorities for Hospital Core Element Implementation.
When sharing the news with Riverside, IDPH said, “We recognize the effort it takes to build and maintain such programs, and we commend your continued dedication.” Click here for more information on the IDPH Acute Care Honor Roll.
"Enhancing patient outcomes is central to everything we do," said Dr. Stonewall McCuiston, Riverside Healthcare's Chief Medical Officer. "Through continuous education, our care teams consistently deliver top-tier antimicrobial stewardship."