AHRQ Grantee Profile: Anthony Harris, M.D., M.P.H.

AHRQ's latest grantee profile features Anthony Harris, M.D., M.P.H., who has developed tailored infection-control practices for hospitals. 

Dr. Harris, professor of public health and epidemiology at the University of Maryland, Baltimore, examined whether an intervention-the universal use of gloves and gowns to combat MRSA (Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus)—could also reduce transmission of antibiotic-resistant gram-negative bacteria. These bacteria are a major infection-control concern because they often cannot be treated effectively with existing antibiotics, putting patients at greater risk of serious illness and death.

In addition, Dr. Harris has analyzed antibiotic utilization practices across hospitals to determine which risk factors or conditions are risk factors for increased antibiotic use.

Dr. Harris was the founder of the Society for Healthcare Epidemiology of America Network and served as its Director from 2009–2013. He also serves on the editorial board of the journal Infection Control and Hospital Epidemiology.

Select to access his profile and profiles of other AHRQ grantees that show how AHRQ grantees have made major advances in health services research.