Sunway Medical Centre Velocity earns recognition for infection control project at Healthcare Asia Awards 2026

SMCV improved frontline safety by reorganising PPE storage in the Accident & Emergency Department and isolation rooms.

Sunway Medical Centre Velocity (SMCV) received the Infection Control Initiative of the Year - Malaysia at the Healthcare Asia Awards 2026 for its project titled Small Change, Big Impact: Redefining Infection Control Through Strategic PPE Holder Installation. The initiative focused on improving accessibility and organisation of personal protective equipment (PPE) in high-risk clinical areas, particularly within Accident & Emergency (A&E) Department and isolation rooms in SMCV.

An infection control audit conducted in 2024 highlighted opportunities to further enhance PPE storage and accessibility. Optimising these arrangements can help minimise potential environmental exposure, improve accessibility during urgent situations, and maintain clear, unobstructed corridors during periods of multiple isolation cases. These enhancements also support a more efficient donning process and strengthen adherence to infection control protocols.

The hospital introduced dedicated PPE holders positioned directly at the point of care. Each holder incorporated semi-enclosed compartments to reduce contamination risks, first-in-first-out dispensing to maintain stock integrity, and clear visual indicators that supported timely restocking. Modular components allowed installation across different clinical spaces, including A&E zones and ward isolation areas. The design aligned PPE storage with routine clinical workflows, allowing healthcare workers to locate and access equipment more efficiently during time-sensitive situations.

Initial implementation took place in isolation rooms and the Red and Yellow Zones of A&E Department. Post-implementation surveys reported that over 80% of staff experienced easier access to PPE after installation. More than 80% also agreed that the holders were strategically located and contributed to maintaining PPE cleanliness. Workspace feedback showed that 60% of respondents rated the reorganised environment as efficient or very efficient. Staff observations further indicated that 90% noticed reduced clutter and improved organisation in clinical work areas.

Following the pilot, installations expanded to additional high-risk areas, including ICU negative pressure isolation rooms, nursery isolation rooms, inpatient wards, endoscopy and dialysis departments, as well as the positive pressure isolation room in the medical ward. The expansion established a consistent PPE storage system across departments and encouraged further review of infection control practices related to equipment accessibility and workspace organisation.

This recognition marks an important milestone for Sunway Medical Centre Velocity as it continues to advance its infection control standards. The hospital remains focused on driving continuous improvements that support safer clinical environments, reinforce best practices, and deliver high-quality patient care.

Healthcare Asia Awards is an awards programme focused on acknowledging exceptional hospitals across Asia that redefine the standards of excellence in the healthcare industry. It proudly shines a spotlight on Asian hospitals that consistently go beyond conventional boundaries to provide top-tier patient care and have a lasting impact on their local communities.

The Healthcare Asia Awards is presented by Healthcare Asia Magazine. To view the full list of winners, click here. If you want to join the 2027 awards programme and be acclaimed for your organisation's remarkable initiatives and contributions to the healthcare industry, please contact Julie Anne Nuñez-Difuntorum at [email protected].