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Taborda JCM, Guzmán JCM, Higuita-Gutiérrez LF. Understanding antibiotic knowledge, attitudes, and practices: a cross-sectional study in physicians from a Colombian region, 2023. BMC MEDICAL EDUCATION 2024; 24:380. [PMID: 38589913 PMCID: PMC11000393 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-024-05354-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antibiotic resistance has been identified as a global health threat. Knowledge, attitudes, and inappropriate prescription practices of antibiotics by physicians play a crucial role in this problem. In Colombia, research addressing this issue is scarce. METHODS A cross-sectional study involving 258 physicians was conducted. A scale with questions on sociodemographic aspects, level of education, satisfaction with antibiotic education received, and knowledge, attitudes, and practices was administered. The scale was designed for each item to be analyzed individually or as a total score ranging from 0 to 100 (0 being the lowest and 100 the highest). RESULTS 31.5% of physicians rated the education received on antibiotics as fair to poor. The knowledge score was 80.1 (IQR 70.5-87.5); however, 25.2% agreed to some extent that amoxicillin is useful in treating most respiratory infections, and 15% agreed that antibiotics are effective in treating upper respiratory infections. Attitudes scored 80.2 (IQR 75.0-86.5), with 99% stating that bacterial resistance is a public health problem in Colombia, but only 56.9% considering it a problem affecting their daily practice. Practices scored 75.5 (IQR 68.8-81.2), and 71.7% affirmed that if they refuse to prescribe antibiotics to a patient who does not need them, the patient can easily obtain them from another physician. General practitioners were found to have lower scores in all three indices evaluated. CONCLUSION The study reveals enduring misconceptions and concerning practices in antibiotic prescription, particularly among general practitioners. Enhancing knowledge necessitates the implementation of continuous medical education programs that focus on updated antibiotic guidelines, and resistance patterns. Fostering positive attitudes requires a culture of trust and collaboration among healthcare professionals. Practical enhancements can be realized through the establishment of evidence-based prescribing guidelines and the integration of regular feedback mechanisms. Moreover, advocating for the inclusion of antimicrobial stewardship principles in medical curricula is crucial, emphasizing the significance of responsible antibiotic use early in medical education.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Luis Felipe Higuita-Gutiérrez
- Facultad de medicina, Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia, Medellín, Colombia.
- Escuela de microbiología, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia.
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Massele A, Rogers AM, Gabriel D, Mayanda A, Magoma S, Cook A, Chigome A, Lorenzetti G, Meyer JC, Moore CE, Godman B, Minzi O. A Narrative Review of Recent Antibiotic Prescribing Practices in Ambulatory Care in Tanzania: Findings and Implications. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2023; 59:2195. [PMID: 38138298 PMCID: PMC10745081 DOI: 10.3390/medicina59122195] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/24/2023]
Abstract
Background and objectives: There are concerns with the current prescribing practices of antibiotics in ambulatory care in Tanzania, including both the public and private sectors. These concerns need to be addressed as part of the national action plan (NAP) of Tanzania to reduce rising antimicrobial resistance (AMR) rates. Issues and concerns include high rates of prescribing of antibiotics for essentially self-limiting conditions. Consequently, there is a need to address this. As a result, the aims of this narrative review were to comprehensively summarize antibiotic utilization patterns particularly in ambulatory care and their rationale in Tanzania and to suggest ways forward to improve future prescribing practices. Materials and Methods: We undertook a narrative review of recently published studies and subsequently documented potential activities to improve future prescribing practices. Potential activities included instigating quality indicators and antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs). Results: Published studies have shown that antibiotics are being excessively prescribed in ambulatory care in Tanzania, in up to 95% to 96.3% of presenting cases depending on the sector. This is despite concerns with their appropriateness. High rates of antibiotic prescribing are not helped by variable adherence to current treatment guidelines. There have also been concerns with extensive prescribing of 'Watch' antibiotics in the private sector. Overall, the majority of antibiotics prescribed across the sectors, albeit inappropriately, were typically from the 'Access' group of antibiotics in the AWaRe (Access/Watch/Reserve) classification rather than 'Watch' antibiotics to limit AMR. The inappropriate prescribing of antibiotics in ambulatory care is linked to current knowledge regarding antibiotics, AMR, and ASPs among both prescribers and patients. Recommended activities for the future include improved education for all groups, the instigation of updated quality indicators, and the regular monitoring of prescribing practices against agreed-upon guidelines and indicators. Education for healthcare professionals on ASPs should start at undergraduate level and continue post qualification. Community advocacy on the rational use of antibiotics should also include social media activities to dispel misinformation. Conclusion: The quality of current prescribing practices of antibiotics in ambulatory care is sub-optimal in Tanzania. This needs to be urgently addressed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amos Massele
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Hubert Kairuki Memorial University, 70 Chwaku Road Mikocheni, Dar Es Salaam P.O. Box 65300, Tanzania
| | - Anastasia Martin Rogers
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Hubert Kairuki Memorial University, 70 Chwaku Road Mikocheni, Dar Es Salaam P.O. Box 65300, Tanzania; (A.M.R.); (D.G.); (A.M.)
| | - Deogratias Gabriel
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Hubert Kairuki Memorial University, 70 Chwaku Road Mikocheni, Dar Es Salaam P.O. Box 65300, Tanzania; (A.M.R.); (D.G.); (A.M.)
| | - Ashura Mayanda
- Department of Microbiology and Parasitology, Faculty of Medicine, Hubert Kairuki Memorial University, 70 Chwaku Road Mikocheni, Dar Es Salaam P.O. Box 65300, Tanzania; (A.M.R.); (D.G.); (A.M.)
| | - Sarah Magoma
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Faculty of Medicine, University of Dodoma, Dodoma P.O. Box 582, Tanzania;
| | - Aislinn Cook
- Centre for Neonatal and Paediatric Infection, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St. George’s University of London, London SW17 0RE, UK; (A.C.); (G.L.); (C.E.M.)
- Health Economics Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 2JD, UK
| | - Audrey Chigome
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, South Africa (J.C.M.)
| | - Giulia Lorenzetti
- Centre for Neonatal and Paediatric Infection, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St. George’s University of London, London SW17 0RE, UK; (A.C.); (G.L.); (C.E.M.)
| | - Johanna C. Meyer
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, South Africa (J.C.M.)
- South African Vaccination and Immunisation Centre, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, South Africa
| | - Catrin E. Moore
- Centre for Neonatal and Paediatric Infection, Institute for Infection and Immunity, St. George’s University of London, London SW17 0RE, UK; (A.C.); (G.L.); (C.E.M.)
| | - Brian Godman
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, South Africa (J.C.M.)
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G4 0RE, UK
| | - Omary Minzi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacology, School of Pharmacy, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, United Nations Rd, Dar Es Salaam P.O. Box 65013, Tanzania;
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Chigome A, Ramdas N, Skosana P, Cook A, Schellack N, Campbell S, Lorenzetti G, Saleem Z, Godman B, Meyer JC. A Narrative Review of Antibiotic Prescribing Practices in Primary Care Settings in South Africa and Potential Ways Forward to Reduce Antimicrobial Resistance. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:1540. [PMID: 37887241 PMCID: PMC10604704 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12101540] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2023] [Revised: 09/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/28/2023] Open
Abstract
There are concerns with the current prescribing of antibiotics in both the private and public primary care settings in South Africa. These concerns need to be addressed going forward to reduce rising antimicrobial resistance (AMR) rates in South Africa. Concerns include adherence to current prescribing guidelines. Consequently, there is a need to comprehensively summarise current antibiotic utilization patterns from published studies as well as potential activities to improve prescribing, including indicators and antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs). Published studies showed that there was an appreciable prescribing of antibiotics for patients with acute respiratory infections, i.e., 52.9% to 78% or more across the sectors. However, this was not universal, with appreciable adherence to prescribing guidelines in community health centres. Encouragingly, the majority of antibiotics prescribed, albeit often inappropriately, were from the 'Access' group of antibiotics in the AWaRe (Access/Watch/Reserve) classification rather than 'Watch' antibiotics to limit AMR. Inappropriate prescribing of antibiotics in primary care is not helped by concerns with current knowledge regarding antibiotics, AMR and ASPs among prescribers and patients in primary care. This needs to be addressed going forward. However, studies have shown it is crucial for prescribers to use a language that patients understand when discussing key aspects to enhance appropriate antibiotic use. Recommended activities for the future include improved education for all groups as well as regularly monitoring prescribing against agreed-upon guidelines and indicators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Audrey Chigome
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, South Africa; (N.R.); (S.C.); (J.C.M.)
| | - Nishana Ramdas
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, South Africa; (N.R.); (S.C.); (J.C.M.)
| | - Phumzile Skosana
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Molotlegi Street, Ga-Rankuwa, Pretoria 0208, South Africa;
| | - Aislinn Cook
- Centre for Neonatal and Paediatric Infection, Institute of Infection and Immunity, St. George’s University of London, London SW17 0RE, UK; (A.C.); (G.L.)
- Health Economics Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 2JD, UK
| | - Natalie Schellack
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Pretoria, Pretoria 0084, South Africa;
| | - Stephen Campbell
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, South Africa; (N.R.); (S.C.); (J.C.M.)
- Centre for Epidemiology and Public Health, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester M13 9PL, UK
| | - Giulia Lorenzetti
- Centre for Neonatal and Paediatric Infection, Institute of Infection and Immunity, St. George’s University of London, London SW17 0RE, UK; (A.C.); (G.L.)
| | - Zikria Saleem
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60800, Pakistan;
| | - Brian Godman
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, South Africa; (N.R.); (S.C.); (J.C.M.)
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G4 0RE, UK
| | - Johanna C. Meyer
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, South Africa; (N.R.); (S.C.); (J.C.M.)
- South African Vaccination and Immunisation Centre, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Molotlegi Street, Ga-Rankuwa, Pretoria 0208, South Africa
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Gul B, Sana M, Saleem A, Mustafa ZU, Salman M, Khan YH, Mallhi TH, Sono TM, Meyer JC, Godman BB. Antimicrobial Dispensing Practices during COVID-19 and the Implications for Pakistan. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:1018. [PMID: 37370337 PMCID: PMC10294926 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12061018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2023] [Revised: 05/18/2023] [Accepted: 05/31/2023] [Indexed: 06/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Antibiotics are one of the most frequently dispensed classes of medicines. However, excessive misuse and abuse enhances antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Previous studies in Pakistan have documented extensive dispensing of 'Watch' and 'Reserve' antibiotics, which is a concern. In view of this, there is a need to assess current dispensing patterns following COVID-19 in Pakistan. A cross-sectional study was undertaken, collecting dispensing data from 39 pharmacies and 53 drug stores from November 2022 to February 2023. Outlets were principally in urban areas (60.9%), with pharmacists/pharmacy technicians present in 32.6% of outlets. In total, 11,092 prescriptions were analyzed; 67.1% of patients were supplied at least one antimicrobial, 74.3% antibiotics, 10.2% antifungals and 7.9% anthelmintics. A total of 33.2% of antimicrobials were supplied without a prescription. Common indications for dispensed antibiotics were respiratory (34.3%) and gastrointestinal (16.8%) infections, which can be self-limiting. In addition, 12% of antibiotics were dispensed for the prevention or treatment of COVID-19. The most frequent antibiotics dispensed were ceftriaxone (18.4%) and amoxicillin (15.4%). Overall, 59.2% antibiotics were 'Watch' antibiotics, followed by 'Access' (40.3%) and 'Reserve' (0.5%) antibiotics. Of the total antibiotics dispensed for treating COVID-19, 68.3% were 'Watch' and 31.7% 'Access'. Overall, there appeared to be an appreciable number of antibiotics dispensed during the recent pandemic, including for patients with COVID-19, alongside generally extensive dispensing of 'Watch' antibiotics. This needs to be urgently addressed with appropriate programs among pharmacists/pharmacy technicians to reduce AMR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bushra Gul
- Department of Medicines, Tehsil Head Quarter (THQ) Hospital, District Bhakkar, Darya Khan 3000, Punjab, Pakistan;
| | - Maria Sana
- Department of Medicine, Faisalabad Medical University, Faisalabad 38000, Punjab, Pakistan; (M.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Aneela Saleem
- Department of Medicine, Faisalabad Medical University, Faisalabad 38000, Punjab, Pakistan; (M.S.); (A.S.)
| | - Zia Ul Mustafa
- Discipline of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Gelugor 11800, Penang, Malaysia
- Department of Pharmacy Services, District Headquarter (DHQ) Hospital, Pakpattan 57400, Punja, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Salman
- Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical and Allied Health Sciences, Lahore College for Women University, Lahore 54000, Punja, Pakistan;
| | - Yusra Habib Khan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Saudi Arabia; (Y.H.K.); (T.H.M.)
| | - Tauqeer Hussain Mallhi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Jouf University, Sakaka 72388, Saudi Arabia; (Y.H.K.); (T.H.M.)
| | - Tiyani Milta Sono
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, Gauteng, South Africa; (T.M.S.); (J.C.M.)
- Saselamani Pharmacy, Saselamani 0928, Limpopo, South Africa
| | - Johanna C. Meyer
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, Gauteng, South Africa; (T.M.S.); (J.C.M.)
- South African Vaccination and Immunisation Centre, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, Gauteng, South Africa
| | - Brian B. Godman
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, Gauteng, South Africa; (T.M.S.); (J.C.M.)
- Department of Pharmacoepidemiology, Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Science (SIPBS), University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G4 0RE, UK
- Centre of Medical and Bio-Allied Health Sciences Research, Ajman University, Ajman P.O. Box 346, United Arab Emirates
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Hoxha I, Godman B, Malaj A, Meyer JC. 11-Year Trend in Antibiotic Consumption in a South-Eastern European Country; the Situation in Albania and the Implications for the Future. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:882. [PMID: 37237785 PMCID: PMC10215466 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12050882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 05/02/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
There are growing concerns with rising antimicrobial resistance (AMR) across countries. These concerns are enhanced by the increasing and inappropriate utilization of 'Watch' antibiotics with their greater resistance potential, AMR is further exacerbated by the increasing use of antibiotics to treat patients with COVID-19 despite little evidence of bacterial infections. Currently, little is known about antibiotic utilization patterns in Albania in recent years, including the pandemic years, the influence of an ageing population, as well as increasing GDP and greater healthcare governance. Consequently, total utilization patterns in the country were tracked from 2011 to 2021 alongside key indicators. Key indicators included total utilization as well as changes in the use of 'Watch' antibiotics. Antibiotic consumption fell from 27.4 DIDs (defined daily doses per 1000 inhabitants per day) in 2011 to 18.8 DIDs in 2019, which was assisted by an ageing population and improved infrastructures. However, there was an appreciable increase in the use of 'Watch' antibiotics during the study period. Their utilization rose from 10% of the total utilization among the top 10 most utilized antibiotics (DID basis) in 2011 to 70% by 2019. Antibiotic utilization subsequently rose after the pandemic to 25.1 DIDs in 2021, reversing previous downward trends. Alongside this, there was increasing use of 'Watch' antibiotics, which accounted for 82% (DID basis) of the top 10 antibiotics in 2021. In conclusion, educational activities and antimicrobial stewardship programs are urgently needed in Albania to reduce inappropriate utilization, including 'Watch' antibiotics, and hence AMR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Iris Hoxha
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine Tirana, 1001 Tirana, Albania
| | - Brian Godman
- Department of Pharmacoepidemiology, Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G4 0RE, UK
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, South Africa
| | - Admir Malaj
- Independent Researcher, 1001 Tirana, Albania
| | - Johanna C. Meyer
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, South Africa
- South African Vaccination and Immunisation Centre, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Molotlegi Street, Garankuwa, Pretoria 0208, South Africa
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Albarqouni L, Palagama S, Chai J, Sivananthajothy P, Pathirana T, Bakhit M, Arab-Zozani M, Ranakusuma R, Cardona M, Scott A, Clark J, Smith CF, Effa E, Ochodo E, Moynihan R. Overuse of medications in low- and middle-income countries: a scoping review. Bull World Health Organ 2023; 101:36-61D. [PMID: 36593777 PMCID: PMC9795388 DOI: 10.2471/blt.22.288293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 08/09/2022] [Accepted: 08/10/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To identify and summarize the evidence about the extent of overuse of medications in low- and middle-income countries, its drivers, consequences and potential solutions. Methods We conducted a scoping review by searching the databases PubMed®, Embase®, APA PsycINFO® and Global Index Medicus using a combination of MeSH terms and free text words around overuse of medications and overtreatment. We included studies in any language published before 25 October 2021 that reported on the extent of overuse, its drivers, consequences and solutions. Findings We screened 3489 unique records and included 367 studies reporting on over 5.1 million prescriptions across 80 low- and middle-income countries - with studies from 58.6% (17/29) of all low-, 62.0% (31/50) of all lower-middle- and 60.0% (33/55) of all upper-middle-income countries. Of the included studies, 307 (83.7%) reported on the extent of overuse of medications, with estimates ranging from 7.3% to 98.2% (interquartile range: 30.2-64.5). Commonly overused classes included antimicrobials, psychotropic drugs, proton pump inhibitors and antihypertensive drugs. Drivers included limited knowledge of harms of overuse, polypharmacy, poor regulation and financial influences. Consequences were patient harm and cost. Only 11.4% (42/367) of studies evaluated solutions, which included regulatory reforms, educational, deprescribing and audit-feedback initiatives. Conclusion Growing evidence suggests overuse of medications is widespread within low- and middle-income countries, across multiple drug classes, with few data of solutions from randomized trials. Opportunities exist to build collaborations to rigorously develop and evaluate potential solutions to reduce overuse of medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loai Albarqouni
- Institute for Evidence-Based Healthcare, Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, 14 University Dr, Robina, QLD, 4229, Australia
| | - Sujeewa Palagama
- Institute for Evidence-Based Healthcare, Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, 14 University Dr, Robina, QLD, 4229, Australia
| | - Julia Chai
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, Alberta, Canada
| | | | - Thanya Pathirana
- School of Medicine and Dentistry, Griffith University, Sunshine Coast, Australia
| | - Mina Bakhit
- Institute for Evidence-Based Healthcare, Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, 14 University Dr, Robina, QLD, 4229, Australia
| | - Morteza Arab-Zozani
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Birjand University of Medical Sciences, Birjand, Iran
| | - Respati Ranakusuma
- Clinical Epidemiology and Evidence-Based Medicine Unit, Dr Cipto Mangunkusumo Hospital, Jakarta, Indonesia
| | - Magnolia Cardona
- Institute for Evidence-Based Healthcare, Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, 14 University Dr, Robina, QLD, 4229, Australia
| | - Anna Scott
- Institute for Evidence-Based Healthcare, Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, 14 University Dr, Robina, QLD, 4229, Australia
| | - Justin Clark
- Institute for Evidence-Based Healthcare, Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, 14 University Dr, Robina, QLD, 4229, Australia
| | | | - Emmanuel Effa
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Calabar, Calabar, Nigeria
| | - Eleanor Ochodo
- Centre for Global Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Ray Moynihan
- Institute for Evidence-Based Healthcare, Faculty of Health Sciences and Medicine, Bond University, 14 University Dr, Robina, QLD, 4229, Australia
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Determinants of the Empiric Use of Antibiotics by General Practitioners in South Africa: Observational, Analytic, Cross-Sectional Study. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11101423. [PMID: 36290081 PMCID: PMC9598257 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11101423] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
The overuse of antibiotics is the main driver of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). However, there has been limited surveillance data on AMR and antibiotic prescribing at a primary healthcare level in South Africa. An observational, analytic, cross-sectional study was undertaken to assess key factors associated with empiric antibiotic prescribing among private sector general practitioners (GPs) in the eThekwini district in South Africa, particularly for patients with acute respiratory infections (ARIs). A semi-structured web-based questionnaire was used between November 2020−March 2021. One hundred and sixteen (55.5%) responding GPs prescribed antibiotics empirically for patients with ARIs more than 70% of the time, primarily for symptom relief and the prevention of complications. GPs between the ages of 35−44 years (OR: 3.38; 95%CI: 1.15−9.88), >55 years (OR: 4.75; 95% CI 1.08−21) and in practice < 15 years (OR: 2.20; 95%CI: 1.08−4.51) were significantly more likely to prescribe antibiotics empirically. Three factors—workload/time pressures; diagnostic uncertainty, and the use of a formulary, were significantly associated with empiric prescribing. GPs with more experience and working alone were slightly less likely to prescribe antibiotics empirically. These findings indicate that a combination of environmental factors are important underlying contributors to the development of AMR. As a result, guide appropriate interventions using a health system approach, which includes pertinent prescribing indicators and targets.
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Wu S, Tannous E, Haldane V, Ellen ME, Wei X. Barriers and facilitators of implementing interventions to improve appropriate antibiotic use in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic review based on the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research. Implement Sci 2022; 17:30. [PMID: 35550169 PMCID: PMC9096759 DOI: 10.1186/s13012-022-01209-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 04/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Behavior change interventions that aim to improve rational antibiotic use in prescribers and users have been widely conducted in both high- and LMICs. However, currently, no review has systematically examined challenges unique to LMICs and offered insights into the underlying contextual factors that influence these interventions. We adopted an implementation research perspective to systematically synthesize the implementation barriers and facilitators in LMICs. Methods We conducted literature searches in five electronic databases and identified studies that involved the implementation of behavior change interventions to improve appropriate antibiotic use in prescribers and users in LMICs and reported implementation barriers and facilitators. Behavior change interventions were defined using the behavior change wheel, and the coding and synthesis of barriers and facilitators were guided by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research (CFIR). Results We identified 52 eligible studies, with the majority targeting prescribers practicing at tertiary facilities (N=39, 75%). The most commonly reported factors influencing implementation were found in the inner setting domain of the CFIR framework, particularly related to constraints in resources and the infrastructure of the facilities where interventions were implemented. Barriers related to the external policy environment (e.g., lack of national initiatives and policies on antibiotic use), and individual characteristics of target populations (e.g., reluctance to change prescribing behaviors) were also common, as well as facilitators related to intervention characteristics (e.g., embedding interventions in routine practice) and process (e.g., stakeholder engagement). We also provided insights into the interrelationships between these factors and the underlying causes contributing to the implementation challenges in LMICs. Conclusion We presented a comprehensive overview of the barriers and facilitators of implementing behavior change interventions to promote rational antibiotic use in LMICs. Our findings suggest that facilitating the implementation of interventions to improve rational antibiotic use needs comprehensive efforts to address challenges at policy, organizational, and implementation levels. Specific strategies include (1) strengthening political commitment to prompt mobilization of domestic resources and formulation of a sustainable national strategy on AMR, (2) improving the infrastructure of health facilities that allow prescribers to make evidence-based clinical decisions, and (3) engaging local stakeholders to improve their buy-in and facilitate contextualizing interventions. Trial registration PROSPERO: CRD42021252715. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13012-022-01209-4.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shishi Wu
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Elias Tannous
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Clinical Biochemistry and Pharmacology, Ben Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel.,Pharmacy services, Hillel Yaffe Medical Center, Hadera, Israel
| | - Victoria Haldane
- Institute of Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Moriah E Ellen
- Institute of Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.,Department of Health Policy and Management, Guilford Glazer Faculty of Business and Management and Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Xiaolin Wei
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada. .,Institute of Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
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Sribenjalux W, Larbsida N, Khamsai S, Panyapornsakul B, Deawtrakulchai P, Meesing A. Insertion of a Clinical Pathway Pop-Up Window into a Computer-Based Prescription System: A Method to Promote Antibiotic Stewardship in Upper Respiratory Tract Infection. Antibiotics (Basel) 2021; 10:antibiotics10121479. [PMID: 34943691 PMCID: PMC8698948 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics10121479] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2021] [Revised: 11/23/2021] [Accepted: 11/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Outpatient antibiotics are most frequently prescribed for upper respiratory tract infection (URI); however, most such prescriptions are inappropriate. We aimed to determine the effect of an electronic clinical pathway on the rates of overall and rational prescription of antibiotics in patients with URI. A pilot quasi-experimental study was conducted in a university hospital and two of its nearby primary care units (PCU) in northeast Thailand from June to September 2020. Clinical pathway pop-up windows were inserted into the hospital’s computer-based prescription system. Care providers were required to check the appropriate boxes before they were able to prescribe amoxicillin or co-amoxiclav. We examined a total of 675 visits to the outpatient department due to URI at three points in time: pre-intervention, immediately post-intervention, and 6 weeks post-intervention. Patients in the latter group tended to be younger and visits were more likely to be general practitioner-related and to the student PCU than in the other two groups. In addition, the rate of antibiotic prescription was significantly lower at 6 weeks after intervention than at either of the other time periods (32.0% vs 53.8% pre-intervention and 46.2% immediately post-intervention; p < 0.001), and the proportion of rational antibiotic prescriptions increased significantly after implementation. Antibiotic prescription rates were lower at the community primary care unit and higher when the physician was a resident or a family doctor. The deployment of an electronic clinical pathway reduced the rate of unnecessary antibiotic prescriptions. The effect was greater at 6 weeks post-implementation. However, discrepancy of patients’ baseline characteristics may have skewed the findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wantin Sribenjalux
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; (N.L.); (S.K.); (B.P.); (P.D.); (A.M.)
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
- Research and Diagnostic Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases (RCEID), Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +66-4336-3664
| | - Nattawat Larbsida
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; (N.L.); (S.K.); (B.P.); (P.D.); (A.M.)
| | - Sittichai Khamsai
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; (N.L.); (S.K.); (B.P.); (P.D.); (A.M.)
- Division of Ambulatory Medicine, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
| | - Benjaphol Panyapornsakul
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; (N.L.); (S.K.); (B.P.); (P.D.); (A.M.)
| | - Phitphiboon Deawtrakulchai
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; (N.L.); (S.K.); (B.P.); (P.D.); (A.M.)
| | - Atibordee Meesing
- Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand; (N.L.); (S.K.); (B.P.); (P.D.); (A.M.)
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Tropical Medicine, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
- Research and Diagnostic Center for Emerging Infectious Diseases (RCEID), Khon Kaen University, Khon Kaen 40002, Thailand
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10
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Foxlee ND, Townell N, Heney C, McIver L, Lau CL. Strategies Used for Implementing and Promoting Adherence to Antibiotic Guidelines in Low- and Lower-Middle-Income Countries: A Systematic Review. Trop Med Infect Dis 2021; 6:tropicalmed6030166. [PMID: 34564550 PMCID: PMC8482147 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed6030166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2021] [Revised: 09/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/07/2021] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
Containing antimicrobial resistance and reducing high levels of antibiotic consumption in low- and lower middle-income countries are a major challenge. Clinical guidelines targeting antibiotic prescribing can reduce consumption, however, the degrees to which clinical guidelines are adopted and adhered to are challenging for developers, policy makers and users. The aim of this study was to review the strategies used for implementing and promoting antibiotic guideline adherence in low- and lower middle-income countries. A review of published literature was conducted using PubMed, Cochrane Library, SCOPUS and the information systems of the World Health Organization and the Australian National University according to PRISMA guidelines and our PROSPERO protocol. The strategies were grouped into five broad categories based on the Cochrane Effective Practice and Organization of Care taxonomy. The 33 selected studies, representing 16 countries varied widely in design, setting, disease focus, methods, intervention components, outcomes and effects. The majority of interventions were multifaceted and resulted in a positive direction of effect. The nature of the interventions and study variability made it impossible to tease out which strategies had the greatest impact on improving CG compliance. Audit and feedback coupled with either workshops and/or focus group discussions were the most frequently used intervention components. All the reported strategies are established practices used in antimicrobial stewardship programs in high-income countries. We recommend interrupted time series studies be used as an alternative design to pre- and post-intervention studies, information about the clinical guidelines be made more transparent, and prescriber confidence be investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicola D. Foxlee
- Department of Global Health, Research School of Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2600, Australia;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +61-7-435-549-071
| | - Nicola Townell
- Infectious Disease Department, Sunshine Coast University Hospital, Birtinya, QLD 4575, Australia;
| | - Claire Heney
- Pathology Queensland, Central Microbiology, Brisbane, QLD 4006, Australia;
| | - Lachlan McIver
- Rocketship Pacific Ltd., Port Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC 3207, Australia;
| | - Colleen L. Lau
- Department of Global Health, Research School of Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, ACT 2600, Australia;
- School of Public Health, University of Queensland, Herston, QLD 4006, Australia
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11
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Lam TT, Dang DA, Tran HH, Do DV, Le H, Negin J, Jan S, Marks GB, Nguyen TA, Fox GJ, Beardsley J. What are the most effective community-based antimicrobial stewardship interventions in low- and middle-income countries? A narrative review. J Antimicrob Chemother 2021; 76:1117-1129. [PMID: 33491090 DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkaa556] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major global issue and antimicrobial stewardship is central to tackling its emergence. The burden of AMR disproportionately impacts low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), where capacity for surveillance and management of resistant pathogens is least developed. Poorly regulated antibiotic consumption in the community is a major driver of AMR, especially in LMICs, yet community-based interventions are neglected in stewardship research, which is often undertaken in high-income settings and/or in hospitals. We reviewed the evidence available to researchers and policymakers testing or implementing community-based antimicrobial stewardship strategies in LMICs. We critically appraise that evidence, deliver recommendations and identify outstanding areas of research need. We find that multifaceted, education-focused interventions are likely most effective in our setting. We also confirm that the quality and quantity of community-based stewardship intervention research is limited, with research on microbiological, clinical and economic sustainability most urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thanh Tuan Lam
- The Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, Kim Ma, Ha Noi, Vietnam
| | - Duc Anh Dang
- National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Hai Ba Trung, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Huy Hoang Tran
- National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Hai Ba Trung, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Dung Van Do
- The University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hong Bang, Q5, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
| | - Hien Le
- The Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, Kim Ma, Ha Noi, Vietnam
| | - Joel Negin
- The Sydney School of Public Health, University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Stephen Jan
- The George Institute for Global Health, Sydney, NSW 2042, Australia
| | - Guy B Marks
- The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW 2052, Australia
| | - Thu Anh Nguyen
- The Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, Kim Ma, Ha Noi, Vietnam.,The Central Clinical School, The Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Greg J Fox
- The Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, Kim Ma, Ha Noi, Vietnam.,The Central Clinical School, The Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | - Justin Beardsley
- The Marie Bashir Institute, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, NSW 2145, Australia.,Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Vo Van Kiet, Q5, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
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12
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Nair MM, Mahajan R, Burza S, Zeegers MP. Behavioural interventions to address rational use of antibiotics in outpatient settings of low-income and lower-middle-income countries. Trop Med Int Health 2021; 26:504-517. [PMID: 33452857 PMCID: PMC8248115 DOI: 10.1111/tmi.13550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Objectives To explore the current evidence on interventions to influence antibiotic prescribing behaviour of health professionals in outpatient settings in low‐income and lower‐middle‐income countries, an underrepresented area in the literature. Methods The systematic review protocol for this study was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42020170504). We searched PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL) for studies relating to antibiotic prescribing of health professionals in outpatient settings in low‐income and lower‐middle‐income countries. Behavioural interventions were classified as persuasive, enabling, restrictive, structural or bundle (mix of different interventions). In total, 3,514 abstracts were screened and 42 studies were selected for full‐text review, with 13 studies included in the final narrative synthesis. Results Of the 13 included studies, five were conducted in Vietnam, two in Sudan, two in Tanzania, two in India and two in Kenya. All studies were conducted in the outpatient or ambulatory setting: eight took place in primary health centres, two in private clinics and three in pharmacies. Our review found that enabling or educational interventions alone may not be sufficient to overcome the ingrained incentives to link revenue generation to sales of antibiotics, and hence, their inappropriate prescription or misuse. Bundle interventions appear to be very effective at changing prescription behaviour among healthcare providers, including drug sellers and pharmacists. Conclusions Multi‐faceted bundle interventions that combine regulation enforcement with face‐to‐face education and peer influence may be more effective than educational interventions alone at curbing inappropriate antibiotic use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohit M Nair
- Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Maurice P Zeegers
- Nutrition and Translational Research in Metabolism, Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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13
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Sylvies F, Nyirenda L, Blair A, Baltzell K. The impact of pulse oximetry and Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI) training on antibiotic prescribing practices in rural Malawi: A mixed-methods study. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0242440. [PMID: 33211744 PMCID: PMC7676725 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0242440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2020] [Accepted: 11/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/15/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The misdiagnosis of non-malarial fever in sub-Saharan Africa has contributed to the significant burden of pediatric pneumonia and the inappropriate use of antibiotics in this region. This study aims to assess the impact of 1) portable pulse oximeters and 2) Integrated Management of Childhood Illness (IMCI) continued education training on the diagnosis and treatment of non-malarial fever amongst pediatric patients being treated by the Global AIDS Interfaith Alliance (GAIA) in rural Malawi. METHODS This study involved a logbook review to compare treatment patterns between five GAIA mobile clinics in Mulanje, Malawi during April-June 2019. An intervention study design was employed with four study groups: 1) 2016 control, 2) 2019 control, 3) IMCI-only, and 4) IMCI and pulse oximeter. A total of 3,504 patient logbook records were included based on these inclusion criteria: age under five years, febrile, malaria-negative, and treated during the dry season. A qualitative questionnaire was distributed to the participating GAIA providers. Fisher's Exact Testing and odds ratios were calculated to compare the prescriptive practices between each study group and reported with 95% confidence intervals. RESULTS The pre- and post-exam scores for the providers who participated in the IMCI training showed an increase in content knowledge and understanding (p<0.001). The antibiotic prescription rates in each study group were 75% (2016 control), 85% (2019 control), 84% (IMCI only), and 42% (IMCI + pulse oximeter) (p<0.001). An increase in pneumonia diagnoses was detected for patients who received pulse oximeter evaluation with an oxygen saturation <95% (p<0.001). No significant changes in antibiotic prescribing practices were detected in the IMCI-only group (p>0.001). However, provider responses to the qualitative questionnaires indicated alternative benefits of the training including improved illness classification and increased provider confidence. CONCLUSION Clinics that implemented both the IMCI course and pulse oximeters exhibited a significant decrease in antibiotic prescription rates, thus highlighting the potential of this tool in combatting antibiotic overconsumption in low-resource settings. Enhanced detection of hypoxia in pediatric patients was regarded by clinicians as helpful for identifying pneumonia cases. GAIA staff appreciated the IMCI continued education training, however it did not appear to significantly impact antibiotic prescription rates and/or pneumonia diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fiona Sylvies
- Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
- Tulane University School of Medicine, New Orleans, LA, United States of America
| | | | - Alden Blair
- Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
| | - Kimberly Baltzell
- Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
- University of California School of Nursing, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States of America
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Dyar OJ, Yang D, Yin J, Sun Q, Stålsby Lundborg C. Variations in antibiotic prescribing among village doctors in a rural region of Shandong province, China: a cross-sectional analysis of prescriptions. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e036703. [PMID: 32487580 PMCID: PMC7265041 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-036703] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To assess variation in antibiotic prescribing practices among village doctors in a rural region of Shandong province, China. DESIGN, SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS Almost all outpatient encounters at village clinics result in a prescription being issued. Prescriptions were collected over a 2.5-year period from 8 primary care village clinics staffed by 24 doctors located around a town in rural Shandong province. A target of 60 prescriptions per clinic per month was sampled from an average total of around 300. Prescriptions were analysed at both aggregate and individual-prescriber levels, with a focus on diagnoses of likely viral acute upper respiratory tract infections (AURIs), defined as International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision codes J00 and J06.9. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Proportions of prescriptions for AURIs containing (1) at least one antibiotic, (2) multiple antibiotics, (3) at least one parenteral antibiotic; classes and agents of antibiotics prescribed. RESULTS In total, 14 471 prescriptions from 23 prescribers were ultimately included, of which 5833 (40.3%) contained at least 1 antibiotic. Nearly two-thirds 62.5% (3237/5177) of likely viral AURI prescriptions contained an antibiotic, accounting for 55.5% (3237/5833) of all antibiotic-containing prescriptions. For AURIs, there was wide variation at the individual level in antibiotic prescribing rates (33.1%-88.0%), as well multiple antibiotic prescribing rates (1.3%-60.2%) and parenteral antibiotic prescribing rates (3.2%-62.1%). Each village doctor prescribed between 11 and 21 unique agents for AURIs, including many broad-spectrum antibiotics. Doctors in the highest quartile for antibiotic prescribing rates for AURI also had higher antibiotic prescribing rates than doctors in the lowest quartile for potentially bacterial upper respiratory tract infections (pharyngitis, tonsillitis, laryngopharyngitis; 89.1% vs 72.4%, p=0.002). CONCLUSIONS All village doctors overused antibiotics for respiratory tract infections. Variations in individual prescriber practices are significant even in a small homogenous setting and should be accounted for when developing targets and interventions to improve antibiotic use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver James Dyar
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Ding Yang
- School of Health Care Management, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Health Economics and Policy Research, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Jia Yin
- School of Health Care Management, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Health Economics and Policy Research, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
| | - Qiang Sun
- School of Health Care Management, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
- NHC Key Laboratory of Health Economics and Policy Research, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, China
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15
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Kleczka B, Kumar P, Njeru MK, Musiega A, Wekesa P, Rabut G, Marx M. Using rubber stamps and mobile phones to help understand and change antibiotic prescribing behaviour in private sector primary healthcare clinics in Kenya. BMJ Glob Health 2019; 4:e001422. [PMID: 31637023 PMCID: PMC6768358 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2019-001422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2019] [Revised: 08/15/2019] [Accepted: 08/18/2019] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Antibiotic use in primary care can drive antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in the community. However, our understanding of antibiotic prescribing in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) stems mostly from hospital-based studies or prescription/sales records, with little information available on routine primary care practices. We used an innovative, paper-to-digital documentation approach to deliver routine data and understand antibiotic use for common infections in low-resource primary healthcare clinics (PHCs). Methods Rubber stamps were introduced in nine private sector PHCs serving Nairobi’s informal settlements to ‘print-on-demand’ clinical documentation templates into paper charts. The intervention included one mobile phone per PHC to take and share images of filled templates, guideline compilation booklets and monthly continuing medical education (CME) sessions. Templates for upper respiratory tract (URTI), urinary tract (UTI), sexually transmitted (STI) and gastrointestinal infection (GI) management were used in eight PHCs. Information in templates from 889 patient encounters was digitised from smartphone images, analysed, and fed back to clinicians during monthly CME sessions. UTI charts (n=130 and 96, respectively) were audited preintervention and postintervention for quality of clinical documentation and management. Results Antibiotics were prescribed in 94.3%±1.6% of all patient encounters (97.3% in URTI, 94.2% in UTI, 91.6% in STI and 91.3% in GI), with 1.4±0.4 antibiotics prescribed per encounter. Clinicians considered antibiotic use appropriate in only 58.6% of URTI and 47.2% of GI cases. While feedback did not affect the number of antibiotics prescribed for UTIs, the use of nitrofurantoin, an appropriate, narrow-spectrum antibiotic, increased (9.2% to 29.9%; p<0.0001) and use of broad spectrum quinolones decreased (30.0% to 16.1%; p<0.05). Conclusion Antibiotic use for common infections is high in private sector PHCs in Kenya, with both knowledge and ‘know-do’ gaps contributing to inappropriate prescription. Paper-based templates in combination with smartphone technologies can sustainably deliver routine primary care case management data to support the battle against AMR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernadette Kleczka
- Haematology and Blood Transfusion, Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, United Republic of Tanzania.,Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, UniversitatsKlinikum Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany.,Health-E-Net Limited, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Pratap Kumar
- Health-E-Net Limited, Nairobi, Kenya.,Institute of Healthcare Management, Strathmore University Business School, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Mercy Karimi Njeru
- Centre for Public Health Research, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Anita Musiega
- Institute of Healthcare Management, Strathmore University Business School, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Phoebe Wekesa
- Institute of Healthcare Management, Strathmore University Business School, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Grace Rabut
- Division of HIV, TB and Malaria, Ministry of Health and Sanitation, Kitui, Kenya
| | - Michael Marx
- Heidelberg Institute of Global Health, UniversitatsKlinikum Heidelberg, Heidelberg, Germany
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