Senator Kemp Hannon, chair of the Senate Health Committee, and State Health Commissioner Richard Daines, M.D., recently led a roundtable discussion where medical experts, including Dr. John N. Morley, Dr. Perry Smith, Dr. Barbara Wallace, Dr. Beth Raucher, Phyllis Silver, MS, George Allen, Ph.D., and Deputy County Executive for Health and Human Services Mary Curtis discussed infection control practices in light of two Long Island physicians reusing syringes.

The reuse of these syringes has put patients at risk for hepatitis and HIV. The reaction of the Office of Professional Medical Conduct (OPMC) to these cases was also discussed.

According to current state law, the Department of Health implements rules and regulations that physicians must follow in order to properly protect their patients. Guidelines referenced by the department state not to administer medications from a syringe to multiple patients, even if the needle or cannula on the syringe is changed.

Needles, cannulae and syringes are sterile, single-use items that should not be reused for another patient or to access a medication or solution that might be used for a subsequent patient.

The panel of experts' task was to engage in thoughtful dialogue about the recent serious lack of adherence to proper infection control practices and procedures by two physicians on Long Island. The panel explored current guidelines, rules and recommendations surrounding safe administration of medications from a syringe. In addition, the panel reviewed the effectiveness of the communication system that exists between the Office of Professional Medical Conduct and the Department of Health, and discussed ways for improvement.

As a result of the recent events, officials believe, undoubtedly, patients are losing confidence in the health care system's ability to provide a safe environment. Senator Hannon and Commissioner Daines agree confidence must be restored adequately and quickly so New Yorkers can access the health care system successfully for their routine care.

"We should expect no less than for New Yorkers to feel confident that when they go to the doctor they would be treated effectively and safely. I am going to continue working to enhance health care in New York and to preserve confidence in the health care system," Senator Hannon said.

According to state law, all physicians, physician assistants and specialist assistants must complete course work or training at the time of their initial licensure or registration and every four years thereafter. Course work or training includes exercising controls to prevent the transmission of hepatitis and HIV. Hospitals are required to verify completion of course work prior to credentialing physicians who wish to be affiliated with their institution. Those physicians who are not affiliated with a hospital must submit a copy of their completion certificate to the Department of Health. Moreover, guidelines for infection control are accessible via the Department of Health's website.

Commissioner Daines added, "Improper infection control risks real harm to patients. The state Health Department is taking aggressive action, including a stepped-up investigation protocol, faster public health alerts, and reminding physicians of their responsibilities for infection control in their practices. A major contributing factor in each of the recent incidents was the availability of medication vials containing doses for more than one patient. In response, the New York City Health Commissioner, Dr. Thomas Frieden, and I have jointly asked the Food and Drug Administration to investigate a full or partial ban on the packaging of drugs and biologics into multi-dose vials. Infection control is a national issue, and may require a national solution. I look forward to today's discussions with this distinguished panel."

The state Legislature is currently in session and will work toward a way to effectively ensure infection control procedures are used in New York.