Don’t Forget the Bacterial Threat

According to Mitchell Schwaber, MD, from the National Center for Infection Control of the Israel Ministry of Health, bacterial infection threats are not getting the attention they deserve given that the World Health Organization and public health agencies continue to focus on the spread of the H1N1 influenza virus. While methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) has made headlines in recent years, carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae infections have not. Generally, antibiotic resistant bacteria affect the elderly and unhealthy patients first, usually in hospitals, before migrating into the surrounding community. According to the Journal of the American Medical Association, in the three decades it took to recognize the threat of MRSA, it had killed more than 18,000 people per year. Currently, carbapenem-resistant Enterobacteriaceae has caused more than 100 deaths near New York City, while H1N1 has caused 436 deaths across the United States during the same four month period.

From “Don’t Forget the Bacterial Threat”

Wall Street Journal (08/12/09) Schwaber, Mitchell J.; Carmeli, Yehuda

With over 27 years in Healthcare Environmental Services (ES), I lead with a belief that attitude drives outcomes. As a Regional Director at MultiCare Health System, I oversee multi-site ES operations with a focus on people-first leadership, infection control, and operational excellence. I champion a Positive Mental Attitude (PMA) not as a slogan, but as a leadership principle. I believe positivity is contagious, and as a leader, I set the tone. Through consistent, uplifting communication, I create environments where ES teams feel empowered to be helpful, proactive, and proud of their impact. For me, development is a choice, and I invest in training, huddles, and coaching that energize teams, helping them thrive in their current roles and grow toward what’s next. My approach to high standards isn't theoretical, it's practical. Just like we notice when a hotel room is clean and fresh, patients and families immediately sense a space that’s been cared for. Through standardized protocols, team accountability, and a shared mission, I help create clean, safe, and healing environments that directly enhance patient experience and staff well-being. It's a privilege to lead teams that play such a vital role in the patient journey, and to help elevate the perception and performance of ES professionals across our system.

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