A cost analysis of surgical site infection for hip fracture patients using national clinical audit data.

These findings indicate that disease-specific surveillance programmes can generate valuable health economic and epidemiological evidence. As the older population continues to grow, the incidence of SSIs and their associated costs are likely to rise. Ongoing analysis and systematic monitoring through clinical audit are crucial for refining cost estimates, informing evidence-based policies, and optimising resource allocation to enhance the quality of care in the acute hospital setting.