Healthcare-acquired infections (HAIs) affect millions of patients annually and are associated with substantial morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. This study aims to identify cases of HAIs using Oregon hospital discharge data, estimate the statewide excess costs attributable to these infections, and assess whether severity of illness and comorbid conditions predict costs per HAI case. A cross-sectional secondary analysis of hospital discharge records was conducted to quantify the clinical and economic burden of HAIs. Understanding the cost drivers associated with HAIs may inform targeted prevention strategies and support more efficient allocation of limited healthcare resources.
