Approximating the cost-benefit analysis to a badge system to track hand hygiene in the hospital setting

Objective: To model the impact of a badge system on hand hygiene and the impact of increased compliance rates on HAIs with the associated cost savings. Setting: We consider a variable number of targeted beds within a hospital. Methods: Using a Markov chain model, we estimate the effect of hand hygiene compliance on HAI transmission over the course of a year. Based on a given level of compliance, the estimated savings are also calculated. Results: With each 10% increment increase in compliance, we estimate a decrease in approximately 7.5 HAIs per year per 100 targeted beds. A 10% increase above baseline in compliance also results in around $100,000 cost savings per year per 100 targeted beds. Conclusions: Due to the relative low cost of implementation and upkeep to the badge system, the reduction in HAIs and increase in cost savings make the badge system a worthwhile addition.