Hackensack Meridian Health funds new technology to reduce hospital-acquired infections

Anthony Vecchione//January 28, 2019//

Hackensack Meridian Health funds new technology to reduce hospital-acquired infections

Anthony Vecchione//January 28, 2019//

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Hackensack Meridian Health announced Monday that it is funding the development of new technology that uses a form of ultraviolet light energy to keep hospitals clean and safe.

The technology features a 90-second disinfection cycle developed by New York-based PurpleSun.

Citing a report published in the American Journal of Infection Control, HMH said that the technology has been piloted in operating rooms, post-acute care units, intensive care and emergency departments and has reported a 98 percent effectiveness in eliminating microorganisms in those areas.

The device allows a much faster, more effective automated light-based delivery system that can disinfect equipment like beds and carts as well as spaces and rooms for ensuring that the environment is well prepared and ready for patient use.

“Innovation is in our DNA at Hackensack Meridian Health and we are proud to fund this exciting technology which will ultimately add to our robust strategies to keep our patients safe and healthy’’ said Robert C. Garrett, CEO of HMH in a statement.

“Preventing the transmission of antibiotic resistant bacteria and infections in our hospitals is foundational for patient safety,’’ said Dr. Jerry Zuckerman, vice president of infection prevention and control at HMH.

Hackensack Meridian Health is joining other investors including Northwell Health in New York. The funding will enable PurpleSun to manufacture and enter the commercialization phase as it grows to meet demand and serve the two largest integrated health networks in the tri-state area with approximately 40 hospitals.