CarePoint Health System

Cynthia Mercado-Reyes

In an interview, Cynthia Mercado-Reyes, manager of infection control preventative medicine at CarePoint Health System, talks about the rapid changes occurring in infection prevention and her journey through it.

What are some major challenges and trends impacting the Healthcare Industry lately?

Rising healthcare costs have been a longstanding challenge. Balancing the need for quality care with affordability for individuals and governments remains a complex issue. Many countries are experiencing an aging population, leading to increased demand for healthcare services and specialized care for age-related conditions. The prevalence of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease, and obesity continues to increase, putting a strain on healthcare systems and resources. Ensuring equitable access to quality care remains a significant challenge. Shortages of healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and specialized technicians, can impact the quality and availability of care.

Regarding trends, the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of telemedicine and digital health solutions, enabling remote consultations, monitoring, and personalized healthcare services. Healthcare providers and systems focus on managing entire populations' health by identifying risk factors and implementing preventive measures. Recognition of the impact of social factors such as socioeconomic status, education, and living conditions on health outcomes is leading to more holistic approaches to healthcare. As a result, it's important to stay updated with the latest information to comprehensively understand the current challenges and trends.

What keeps you up at night regarding some of the major predicaments in the Healthcare Industry?

As an infection prevention, the rise of antibiotic-resistant bacteria is a significant concern. Overuse and misuse of antibiotics, both in healthcare settings and in agriculture, have contributed to the developing of drug-resistant infections that are challenging to treat. Infections acquired by patients while receiving treatment in healthcare facilities remain a major issue. These infections can increase patient morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. Hand hygiene compliance among healthcare workers is crucial to prevent the spread of infections. However, ensuring consistent adherence to proper hand hygiene protocols can be challenging. Adequate availability of PPE during outbreaks is essential to protect healthcare workers and patients. Healthcare facilities in resource-limited areas often lack basic infection control measures, making them more susceptible to outbreaks and spreading infections. Ensuring consistent adherence to

infection control protocols by healthcare workers and patients can be challenging, especially in high-stress situations. Effective surveillance systems are needed to quickly identify and contain outbreaks. This involves real-time data collection, analysis, and communication.

Can you tell us about the latest project you have been working on and what technological and process elements you leveraged to make the project successful?

I don't have personal experiences or engage in projects yet, but I can provide an example of a hypothetical project related to infection control in healthcare, along with the technological and process elements that could be leveraged for its success. Implementing a Real-Time Infection Surveillance System. The project aims to develop and implement a real-time infection surveillance system in a hospital to enhance the early detection and response to infectious disease outbreaks. Implement predictive modeling techniques to forecast potential infection hotspots based on historical data and current trends. By integrating cutting-edge technology and efficient processes, this hypothetical project focuses on improving infection control practices within a healthcare setting. It aims to enhance early detection, rapid response, and, ultimately, the safety of patients and healthcare workers.

"Infection prevention is a critical field that constantly evolves due to emerging infectious diseases, new technologies, research findings, and changes in healthcare practices."

What are some of the technological trends that excite you for the future of the Healthcare Industry?

Advanced predictive analytics models can analyze historical data and current trends to forecast potential outbreaks. This enables healthcare facilities to take proactive measures and allocate resources effectively. Telehealth platforms allow for remote consultations and monitoring, reducing the need for in-person visits and minimizing the risk of exposure to infectious agents in healthcare facilities. However, it's important to note that while these technologies are promising, their successful integration requires careful consideration of ethical, privacy, regulatory, and practical implications.

Could you provide a brief overview of your career path leading up to your current position as an Infection Preventionist at CarePoint Health System, highlighting key roles and milestones?

My family is all in the medical industry; thus, the medical profession has always been my passion. My grandfather, Dr. Norberto Yumang, my late mother, Elizabeth Yumang, and only Brother

Jay Mercado, a nurse, has pushed me to pursue a medical career because it is a steady profession. Since 2004, I have worked as a nurse. After 20 years of working as a nurse, I realized I wanted more. I opted to pursue a Bachelor of Science degree in Public Health and returned to school at Southern New Hampshire University. In May 2022, I graduated and began my new career as an Infection Preventionist at the Venetian Care and Rehabilitation facility in South Amboy, NJ. Working there has instilled in me such a passion and interest in preventing infections that I chose to advance my studies and acquire a Master's in Public Health. I am currently a graduate student at Chamberlain University in North Brunswick, New Jersey, and I will be graduating in 2024. After working for a couple of months at Venetian Care, I was offered a position as a Manager of Infection Control at Carepoint Health Bayonne Medical Center. Working at a hospital has provided me the opportunity to advance in my industry, and every day, I am inspired to make a difference.

My goal is to use the skills that I have learned working in the medical field and to continue to further my education and learn through the experiences with patient care with 20 years of experience as a Board Certified Nurse currently practicing as an Infection Preventionist holding a Bachelor of Science degree in Public Health, currently in graduate school pursuing my Master in Public Health, graduating next year 2024, and landing with my final degree as a Doctor in Public Health with a passion to specialize in Preventative Medicine.

Given the industry's rapid evolution, how have you adapted and grown throughout your career?

Infection prevention is a critical field that constantly evolves due to emerging infectious diseases, new technologies, research findings, and changes in healthcare practices. Since I started practicing my career, I have attended conferences, workshops, and seminars and pursued further education to acquire new skills and knowledge. I have developed and refined strategies for early detection, rapid response, and coordination with various stakeholders. I have collaborated with organizations to monitor global disease trends and understand cultural factors that influence infection transmission. I have improved my communication skills to convey information accurately and help the public understand preventive measures. I have learned to enhance my skills in data collection, analysis, and interpretation to make informed decisions and recommendations. Last, I have been flexible, adaptable, and committed to lifelong learning to keep up with the evolving landscape of infectious diseases and healthcare practices. My profession today is critical in safeguarding public health and minimizing the impact of infectious outbreaks.