Dr Kathy Dempsey
Biography:
Dr Kathy Dempsey AM is the NSW Chief Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) Practitioner and Healthcare Associated Infection (HAI) Advisor at the Clinical Excellence Commission (CEC), the lead agency for IPC across NSW Health, Australia. A registered nurse for nearly 40 years, Kathy has 29 years’ experience in IPC.
She is a Credentialled Expert ICP (CICP-E), Fellow of the Australasian College for Infection Prevention and Control (ACIPC), and holds a Master’s degree, a Diploma in Leadership and Management, multiple international certifications, and a Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) through the Future Leaders of Healthcare program UNSW.
Kathy is a board director of the Australasian College for IPC (ACIPC), member of its Professional and Credentialling Standards Committee, as well as the editorial board for Infection, Disease & Health and is chair of the Science and Research Committee. She is also a member of the WHO Global IPC Network and its Public Health Emergency Working Group. Kathy led NSW’s IPC response to COVID-19 and contributed expertise to national and international groups.
Kathy’s leadership and expertise have been widely recognised, including receiving ACIPC’s highest honour—the Claire Boardman Medal for Leadership in IPC (2022), and receiving a member of the order of Australia 2026 in recognition for her work on Infection prevention and control, patient safety and clinical governance.
Abstract:
Infection prevention and control (IPC) has evolved significantly in response to emerging pathogens, technological advances, and lessons from global health emergencies. Yet, amid increasing complexity, the fundamental principles of IPC remain the cornerstone of safe healthcare delivery. The “Back to Basics” theme highlights the enduring value of evidence-based practices that prevent healthcare-associated infections and protect patients, healthcare workers, and communities.
This presentation explores the critical foundations of IPC and emphasises the importance of strengthening compliance with core practices through leadership, education, surveillance, and a culture of safety. Drawing on contemporary evidence and practical healthcare experience, it will demonstrate that excellence in IPC is achieved not through complexity alone, but through the consistent and reliable application of fundamental measures.
In an era of artificial intelligence, sustainability imperatives, and rapidly changing healthcare delivery, success in IPC depends not only on technology, but also on our ability to think critically, apply the basics consistently, and make informed decisions that protect both people and the planet.
By reaffirming the value of these essential practices, healthcare organisations can improve patient outcomes, safeguard the workforce, and build resilient systems ready to respond to current and future infectious threats. Back to basics is not a step backwards; it is a renewed commitment to the principles that underpin effective infection prevention and control.