Jamie Swift, MSN, RN, CIC, LTC-CIP, FAPIC, discussed her involvement with the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) during a recent interview, shedding light on how this organization has influenced her career and the operations of her department. Swift first became aware of APIC when she transitioned from public health to a hospital setting. Recognizing the value of the organization’s resources and educational opportunities, she became a member and has since been actively involved both locally and nationally.
Swift emphasized that membership in APIC is a fundamental expectation for every Infection Preventionist (IP) hired in her department. One of the first steps they take is signing new hires up for the local APIC chapter, with the health system covering the dues. This practice underscores the importance Swift places on continuous education and access to a wealth of resources provided by APIC. She believes that these resources are crucial for the growth and development of IPs, helping them stay updated on best practices and advancements in the field.
Swift has been an active member of her local APIC chapter, regularly attending national APIC conferences, which her health system also supports financially. These conferences offer valuable educational sessions and networking opportunities that enhance the skills and knowledge of infection prevention professionals. Swift’s health system recognizes the benefits of such involvement, promoting the continuous professional development of their IPs.
In addition to her active participation, Swift recently took on the role of chapter legislative liaison, serving on the board of her local APIC chapter. This role has allowed her to engage with the legislative aspects of infection prevention, advocating for policies that impact community health. Swift enjoys the opportunity to meet with politicians and discuss the broader implications of infection prevention work, highlighting how it benefits the community as a whole.
Swift’s journey with APIC illustrates the significant impact professional organizations can have on career development and the effectiveness of Infection Prevention programs. By fostering a culture of continuous learning and advocacy within her department, Swift ensures that her team remains at the forefront of the field. Her involvement with APIC, both locally and nationally, not only enhances her professional growth but also contributes to the advancement of infection prevention practices on a larger scale.
For those in the field of Infection Prevention, Swift’s experience underscores the importance of engaging with professional organizations like APIC. These organizations offer essential resources, educational opportunities, and platforms for advocacy that can greatly benefit both individual professionals and their broader health systems. Swift’s proactive approach to membership and involvement serves as a model for leveraging professional organizations to drive excellence in Infection Prevention.