In a recent interview with Jacob Hutcherson from the Voice for Infection Prevention, Cristine Lacerna discussed the innovative structure of her team of corporate and regional Infection Preventionists (IPs) and its impact on the broader healthcare system they serve. When asked about the effectiveness of this setup, Cristine expressed her enthusiasm and satisfaction with the structure, highlighting its unique approach to Infection Prevention.
Cristine elaborated on how this structure allows for a different kind of Infection Prevention practice, one that operates at a higher, more global level. The core of this approach is mentorship, with a strong focus on managing people and programs in a way that fosters growth and development. The IPs working under Cristine started as hospital-based Infection Preventionists and have since embraced the broader scope of their roles, finding new opportunities for career advancement and skill development.
This setup not only benefits the individual IPs but also enhances the overall effectiveness of Infection Prevention across the 21 hospitals in the system. By working with a variety of stakeholders, both within and outside of Infection Prevention, the team gains a diverse range of experiences and perspectives. This cross-functional collaboration is key to building a robust foundation for career growth and innovation in the field.
Cristine highlighted that this model encourages IPs to think about Infection Prevention differently. The exposure to various aspects of healthcare and the opportunity to interact with multiple stakeholders help mold them into more versatile and effective leaders. The structure also supports continuous professional development, ensuring that the IPs are well-equipped to handle the dynamic challenges of Infection Prevention.
Overall, Cristine’s insights underscore the importance of innovative organizational structures in enhancing the practice of Infection Prevention. Her leadership and the strategic design of her team have created a thriving environment for mentorship, career development, and improved healthcare outcomes. This approach serves as a valuable example for other healthcare systems looking to elevate their Infection Prevention practices.