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Festok RA, Ahuja AS, Chen JY, Chu L, Barron J, Case K, Thompson E, Chen SC, Weiss J, Swerlick RA, Escoffery C, Yeung H. Barriers and Facilitators Affecting Long-Term Antibiotic Prescriptions for Acne Treatment. JAMA Dermatol 2024; 160:535-543. [PMID: 38568616 PMCID: PMC10993164 DOI: 10.1001/jamadermatol.2024.0203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/06/2024]
Abstract
Importance Dermatologists prescribe more oral antibiotics per clinician than clinicians in any other specialty. Despite clinical guidelines that recommend limitation of long-term oral antibiotic treatments for acne to less than 3 months, there is little evidence to guide the design and implementation of an antibiotic stewardship program in clinical practice. Objective To identify salient barriers and facilitators to long-term antibiotic prescriptions for acne treatment. Design, Setting, and Participants This qualitative study assessed data collected from stakeholders (including dermatologists, infectious disease physicians, dermatology resident physicians, and nonphysician clinicians) via an online survey and semistructured video interviews between March and August 2021. Data analyses were performed from August 12, 2021, to January 20, 2024. Main Outcomes and Measures Online survey and qualitative video interviews developed with the Theoretical Domains Framework. Thematic analyses were used to identify salient themes on barriers and facilitators to long-term antibiotic prescriptions for acne treatment. Results Among 30 participants (14 [47%] males and 16 [53%] females) who completed the study requirements and were included in the analysis, knowledge of antibiotic guideline recommendations was high and antibiotic stewardship was believed to be a professional responsibility. Five salient themes were to be affecting long-term antibiotic prescriptions: perceived lack of evidence to justify change in dermatologic practice, difficulty navigating patient demands and satisfaction, discomfort with discussing contraception, iPLEDGE-related barriers, and the absence of an effective system to measure progress on antibiotic stewardship. Conclusions and Relevance The findings of this qualitative study indicate that multiple salient factors affect long-term antibiotic prescribing practices for acne treatment. These factors should be considered in the design and implementation of any future outpatient antibiotic stewardship program for clinical dermatology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ronnie A. Festok
- Department of Dermatology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Avni S. Ahuja
- Department of Dermatology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Jared Y. Chen
- Department of Dermatology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Lena Chu
- Department of Dermatology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Jason Barron
- Department of Dermatology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Katherine Case
- Department of Dermatology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Elaine Thompson
- Department of Dermatology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Suephy C. Chen
- Department of Dermatology, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina
- Division of Dermatology, Durham VA Medical Center, Durham, North Carolina
| | - Jonathan Weiss
- Department of Dermatology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Robert A. Swerlick
- Department of Dermatology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Cam Escoffery
- Department of Dermatology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
| | - Howa Yeung
- Department of Dermatology, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, Georgia
- Associate Editor, JAMA Dermatology
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Meem MH, Yusuf SB, Al Abbad SS, Rahman S, Al-Gawati M, Albrithen H, Alodhayb AN, Uddin KM. Exploring the anticancer and antibacterial potential of naphthoquinone derivatives: a comprehensive computational investigation. Front Chem 2024; 12:1351669. [PMID: 38449478 PMCID: PMC10914998 DOI: 10.3389/fchem.2024.1351669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/30/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024] Open
Abstract
This study investigates the potential of 2-(4-butylbenzyl)-3-hydroxynaphthalene-1,4-dione (11) and its 12 derivatives as anticancer and biofilm formation inhibitors for methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus using in silico methods. The study employed various computational methods, including molecular dynamics simulation molecular docking, density functional theory, and global chemical descriptors, to evaluate the interactions between the compounds and the target proteins. The docking results revealed that compounds 9, 11, 13, and ofloxacin exhibited binding affinities of -7.6, -7.9, -7.5, and -7.8 kcal mol-1, respectively, against peptide methionine sulfoxide reductase msrA/msrB (PDB: 3E0M). Ligand (11) showed better inhibition for methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus msrA/msrB enzyme. The complex of the 3E0M-ligand 11 remained highly stable across all tested temperatures (300, 305, 310, and 320 K). Principal Component Analysis (PCA) was employed to evaluate the behavior of the complex at various temperatures (300, 305, 310, and 320 K), demonstrating a total variance of 85%. Convergence was confirmed by the eigenvector's cosine content value of 0.43, consistently displaying low RMSD values, with the minimum observed at 310 K. Furthermore, ligand 11 emerges as the most promising candidate among the compounds examined, showcasing notable potential when considering a combination of in vitro, in vivo, and now in silico data. While the naphthoquinone derivative (11) remains the primary candidate based on comprehensive in silico studies, further analysis using Frontier molecular orbital (FMO) suggests while the Egap value of compound 11 (2.980 eV) and compound 13 (2.975 eV) is lower than ofloxacin (4.369 eV), indicating their potential, so it can be a statement that compound 13 can also be investigated in further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mehnaz Hossain Meem
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, North South University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Sumaiya Binte Yusuf
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, North South University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Sanaa S. Al Abbad
- Department of Chemistry, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Shofiur Rahman
- Biological and Environmental Sensing Research Unit, King Abdullah Institute for Nanotechnology, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mahmoud Al-Gawati
- Biological and Environmental Sensing Research Unit, King Abdullah Institute for Nanotechnology, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Research Chair for Tribology, Surface, and Interface Sciences, Department of Physics and Astronomy, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Hamad Albrithen
- Biological and Environmental Sensing Research Unit, King Abdullah Institute for Nanotechnology, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Research Chair for Tribology, Surface, and Interface Sciences, Department of Physics and Astronomy, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdullah N. Alodhayb
- Biological and Environmental Sensing Research Unit, King Abdullah Institute for Nanotechnology, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- Research Chair for Tribology, Surface, and Interface Sciences, Department of Physics and Astronomy, College of Science, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Kabir M. Uddin
- Department of Biochemistry and Microbiology, North South University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
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Ong’uti SK, Artandi M, Betts B, Weng Y, Desai M, Lentz C, Nelligan I, Ha DR, Holubar MK. A quality-improvement approach to urgent-care antibiotic stewardship for respiratory tract infections during the COVID-19 pandemic: Lessons learned. Infect Control Hosp Epidemiol 2023; 44:2022-2027. [PMID: 36815249 PMCID: PMC10445104 DOI: 10.1017/ice.2023.8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2022] [Revised: 12/22/2022] [Accepted: 12/27/2022] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We investigated a decrease in antibiotic prescribing for respiratory illnesses in 2 academic urgent-care clinics during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic using semistructured clinician interviews. METHODS We conducted a quality-improvement project from November 2020 to May 2021. We investigated provider antibiotic decision making using a mixed-methods explanatory design including interviews. We analyzed transcripts using a thematic framework approach to identify emergent themes. Our performance measure was antibiotic prescribing rate (APR) for encounters with respiratory diagnosis billing codes. We extracted billing and prescribing data from the electronic medical record and assessed differences using run charts, p charts and generalized linear regression. RESULTS We observed significant reductions in the APR early during the COVID-19 pandemic (relative risk [RR], 0.20; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.17-0.25), which was maintained over the study period (P < .001). The average APRs were 14% before the COVID-19 pandemic, 4% during the QI project, and 7% after the project. All providers prescribed less antibiotics for respiratory encounters during COVID-19, but only 25% felt their practice had changed. Themes from provider interviews included changing patient expectations and provider approach to respiratory encounters during COVID-19, the impact of increased telemedicine encounters, and the changing epidemiology of non-COVID-19 respiratory infections. CONCLUSIONS Our findings suggest that the decrease in APR was likely multifactorial. The average APR decreased significantly during the pandemic. Although the APR was slightly higher after the QI project, it did not reach prepandemic levels. Future studies should explore how these factors, including changing patient expectations, can be leveraged to improve urgent-care antibiotic stewardship.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Maja Artandi
- Express Care, Stanford Health Care, Stanford, California
| | - Brooke Betts
- Department of Pharmacy, Stanford Health Care, Stanford, California
| | - Yingjie Weng
- Quantitative Sciences Unit, Stanford University School of Medicine
| | - Manisha Desai
- Quantitative Sciences Unit, Stanford University School of Medicine
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | | | - Ian Nelligan
- Primary Care and Population Health, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - David R. Ha
- Department of Quality, Patient Safety and Effectiveness, Stanford Health Care, Stanford, California
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
| | - Marisa K. Holubar
- Department of Quality, Patient Safety and Effectiveness, Stanford Health Care, Stanford, California
- Division of Infectious Diseases and Geographic Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California
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Havlicek KL, Muhsin A. Can Antibiotic Stewardship Be Achieved by Utilizing the Stewardship Through Educating Patients (S.T.E.P.) Process? Cureus 2023; 15:e47992. [PMID: 38034220 PMCID: PMC10686623 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.47992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite research and efforts to mitigate bacterial resistance, antibiotic overprescribing continues to occur, often due to real or perceived expectations of patients. Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine: (1) if there's an association between the provider's patient education efforts and the patient's satisfaction, and (2) the research participant's subsequent behavior concerning antibiotic prescriptions, by utilizing the Stewardship Through Educating Patients (S.T.E.P.) process for positive prescriptive change. The S.T.E.P. program features straightforward, simple education via face-to-face counseling at patient encounters, along with presenting applicable printed educational pamphlets from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). These two interventions were utilized in this study with research participants from the healthcare provider, with education focused on appropriate antibiotic use in the treatment of adults diagnosed with common illnesses such as an upper respiratory infection (the common cold), acute sinusitis, and acute bronchitis, which oftentimes are viral in origin. METHOD This Quality Improvement (QI) interventional study utilized the researcher's direct face-to-face patient education and CDC printed materials as a measure of antibiotic prescribing as a primary outcome, with patient satisfaction as a secondary outcome via convenience sampling of 40 hospital employees who utilized a free hospital-based employee healthcare clinic. RESULTS Patient-teaching by this study's researcher, along with supplemental printed patient education material from the CDC that were given to research participants during an initial medical encounter, were effective interventions used in reducing antibiotic prescribing, as evidenced by a positive patient satisfaction in 95% of research participants. CONCLUSIONS Antibiotic use in the treatment of adults diagnosed with common illnesses such as an upper respiratory infection (the common cold), acute sinusitis, and acute bronchitis, may be safely reduced by using a combination of patient-education and clinician intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ahmed Muhsin
- Research, Oceania University of Medicine, Apia, WSM
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Implementing antibiotic stewardship in high-prescribing English general practices: a mixed-methods study. Br J Gen Pract 2023; 73:e164-e175. [PMID: 36823061 PMCID: PMC9975978 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp.2022.0298] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Trials have identified antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) strategies that effectively reduce antibiotic use in primary care. However, many are not commonly used in England. The authors co-developed an implementation intervention to improve use of three AMS strategies: enhanced communication strategies, delayed prescriptions, and point-of-care C-reactive protein tests (POC-CRPTs). AIM To investigate the use of the intervention in high-prescribing practices and its effect on antibiotic prescribing. DESIGN AND SETTING Nine high-prescribing practices had access to the intervention for 12 months from November 2019. This was primarily delivered remotely via a website with practices required to identify an 'antibiotic champion'. METHOD Routinely collected prescribing data were compared between the intervention and the control practices. Intervention use was assessed through monitoring. Surveys and interviews were conducted with professionals to capture experiences of using the intervention. RESULTS There was no evidence that the intervention affected prescribing. Engagement with intervention materials differed substantially between practices and depended on individual champions' preconceptions of strategies and the opportunity to conduct implementation tasks. Champions in five practices initiated changes to encourage use of at least one AMS strategy, mostly POC-CRPTs; one practice chose all three. POC-CRPTs was used more when allocated to one person. CONCLUSION Clinicians need detailed information on exactly how to adopt AMS strategies. Remote, one-sided provision of AMS strategies is unlikely to change prescribing; initial clinician engagement and understanding needs to be monitored to avoid misunderstanding and suboptimal use.
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Smith SS, Caliendo A, Cheng BT, Kern RC, Holl J, Linder JA, Cameron KA. Patient Perspectives on the Drivers and Deterrents of Antibiotic Treatment of Acute Rhinosinusitis: a Qualitative Study. J Gen Intern Med 2023; 38:683-690. [PMID: 36258155 PMCID: PMC9971408 DOI: 10.1007/s11606-022-07811-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antibiotics are prescribed in >80% of outpatient acute rhinosinusitis (ARS) visits, despite the low incidence of bacterial infection. Previous studies have shown patient expectations are the most robust predictor of antibiotics prescription in ARS. However, patient perceptions are not well known or understood. OBJECTIVE To understand patient perceptions regarding what drives or deters them from wanting, seeking, and taking antibiotic treatment of ARS. DESIGN Iterative thematic analysis of semi-structured interviews. PARTICIPANTS Nineteen adults diagnosed with ARS within the prior 60 days at the Northwestern Medicine General Internal Medicine clinic in Chicago, IL. MAIN MEASURES Perceptions of patients with ARS. KEY RESULTS We interviewed 19 patients, identifying the following drivers of antibiotic use: (1) symptoms, especially discolored rhinorrhea, and seeking relief, (2) belief that antibiotics are a convenient and/or effective way to relieve/cure sinusitis, and (3) desire for tangible outcomes of a clinic visit. For deterrents, the following themes emerged: (1) concern about antibiotic resistance, (2) preference for other treatments or preference to avoid medications, and (3) desire to avoid a healthcare visit. Patients identified that a trustworthy physician's recommendation for antibiotics was a driver, and a recommendation against antibiotics was a deterrent to taking antibiotics; a delayed antibiotic prescription also served as a deterrent. Antibiotic side effects were viewed neutrally by most participants, though they were a deterrent to some. CONCLUSIONS Patients have misconceptions about the indications and effectiveness of antibiotics for ARS. Intimate knowledge of key antibiotic drivers and deterrents, from the perspective of patients with ARS, can be leveraged to engage and increase patients' knowledge, and set appropriate expectations for antibiotics for ARS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Shintani Smith
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.
- Center for Health Services and Outcomes Research, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA.
| | - Anne Caliendo
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Brian T Cheng
- Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Robert C Kern
- Department of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jane Holl
- Department of Neurology, Biological Sciences Division, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
- Center for Healthcare Delivery Science and Innovation, University of Chicago, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Jeffrey A Linder
- Center for Primary Care Innovation, Institute for Public Health and Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Kenzie A Cameron
- Center for Health Services and Outcomes Research, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
- Center for Primary Care Innovation, Institute for Public Health and Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
- Division of General Internal Medicine, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, IL, USA
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Essilini A, Le Dref G, Bocquier A, Kivits J, Welter A, Pulcini C, Thilly N. French general practitioners’ and patients’ acceptability of a public commitment charter and patient information leaflets targeting unnecessary antibiotic use: a qualitative study. Antimicrob Resist Infect Control 2022; 11:32. [PMID: 35135624 PMCID: PMC8822724 DOI: 10.1186/s13756-022-01065-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The ‘AntibioCharte’ randomised controlled study aimed at assessing the impact of a multifaceted antibiotic stewardship intervention targeting French general practitioners with higher-than-average antibiotic use. The intervention included a public commitment charter signed by the general practitioner, a non-prescription pad, and a patient information leaflet. Objectives We conducted a qualitative study to evaluate general practitioners’ fidelity in the intervention and its acceptability by patients and general practitioners. Methods This investigation was performed in northeastern France from July 2019 to May 2020, among the AntibioCharte intervention group after a 1-year implementation period. General practitioners’ fidelity in the charter was assessed by direct observations; general practitioners’ fidelity in the other tools, and acceptability of both general practitioners and patients were assessed through semi-structured face-to-face individual interviews. Results Twenty-seven general practitioners and 14 patients participated. General practitioners’ fidelity varied according to the tool: the charter was clearly displayed in most waiting rooms; the non-prescription pad was used throughout the intervention period by most general practitioners while the leaflet was used by fewer general practitioners. Both general practitioners and patients found the charter’s content and form relevant, but few general practitioners felt themselves publicly engaged. The waiting room may not be appropriate to display the charter as some general practitioners forgot it and patients did not always read the displayed documents. General practitioners appreciated the pad and found that it could help them change their practices. It was perceived as a good tool to educate patients and manage their expectations for antibiotics. Patients appreciated the pad too, especially information on the infections’ symptoms and their duration. Still, some patients feared that it could encourage doctors not to prescribe antibiotics. Unlike general practitioners, who considered the leaflet redundant with the information given during the consultation, patients found it useful to raise awareness on antibiotics’ specificities and risks, and remind them of good practices. Conclusions The AntibioCharte intervention was overall well accepted by general practitioners and patients. The non-prescription pad was the best perceived tool. Trial registration number ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04562571. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13756-022-01065-3.
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Bjerrum A, García-Sangenís A, Modena D, Córdoba G, Bjerrum L, Chalkidou A, Lykkegaard J, Hansen MP, Søndergaard J, Nexøe J, Rebnord I, Sebjørnsen I, Jensen JN, Hansen MB, Taxis K, Lambert M, Benko R, González López-Valcárcel B, Raynal F, Barragán N, Touboul P, Bruno P, Radzeviciene R, Jaruseviciene L, Bandzaite A, Godycki-Cwirko M, Kowalczyk A, Lionis C, Karkana MN, Anastasaki M, Coleman J, Glasová H, van Agtmael M, Tattevin P, Borràs A, Llor C. Health alliance for prudent prescribing and yield of antibiotics in a patient-centred perspective (HAPPY PATIENT): a before-and-after intervention and implementation study protocol. BMC PRIMARY CARE 2022; 23:102. [PMID: 35501712 PMCID: PMC9063370 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-022-01710-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Background Excessive and inappropriate use of antibiotics is the most important driver of antimicrobial resistance. The aim of the HAPPY PATIENT project is to evaluate the adaptation of European Union (EU) recommendations on the prudent use of antimicrobials in human health by evaluating the impact of a multifaceted intervention targeting different categories of healthcare professionals (HCPs) on common community-acquired infectious diseases, especially respiratory and urinary tract infections. Methods/design HAPPY PATIENT was initiated in January 2021 and is planned to end in December 2023. The partners of this project include 15 organizations from 9 countries. Diverse HCPs (doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and pharmacy technicians) will be audited by the Audit Project Odense (APO) method before and after an intervention in four different settings: general practice, out of hours services, nursing homes and community pharmacies in four high antibiotic prescribing countries (France, Poland, Greece, and Spain) and one low prescribing country (Lithuania). About 25 individuals from each professional group will be recruited in each country, who will register at least 25 patients with community-acquired infections during each audit period. Shortly before the second registration participants will undertake a multifaceted intervention and will receive the results from the first registration to allow the identification of possible quality problems. At these meetings participants will receive training courses on enhancement of communication skills, dissemination of clinical guidelines with recommendations for diagnosis and treatment, posters for the waiting rooms, and leaflets for patients. The results of the second registration will be compared with those obtained in the first audit. Discussion HAPPY PATIENT is an EU-funded project aimed at contributing to the battle against antibiotic resistance through improvement of the quality of management of common community-acquired infections based on interventions by different types of HCPs. It is hypothesized that the use of multifaceted strategies combining active intervention will be effective in reducing inappropriate prescribing and dispensing of antibiotics. Study registration EU Health programmes project database https://webgate.ec.europa.eu/chafea_pdb/health/projects/900024/summary; date of registration: 1 January 2021.
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Bar-Yishay M, Yehoshua I, Bilitzky A, Press Y. Treatment outcomes of acute streptococcal tonsillitis according to antibiotic treatment. A retrospective analysis of 242,366 cases treated in the community. Eur J Gen Pract 2022; 28:142-149. [PMID: 35695024 PMCID: PMC9225758 DOI: 10.1080/13814788.2022.2083105] [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] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Acute upper respiratory infections are the most common reason for primary physician visits in the community. This study investigated whether the type of antibiotic used to treat streptococcal tonsillitis can reduce the burden by affecting the number of additional visits. Objectives To assess the effect of different antibiotic treatments for tonsillitis on the number of additional primary physician visits and the development of infectious or inflammatory sequels. Methods This retrospective study included first cases of culture-confirmed streptococcal tonsillitis (n = 242,366, 55.3% females, 57.6% aged 3–15 years) treated in primary clinics throughout Israel between the years 2010 and 2019. Primary outcomes were the number of additional primary physician visits, due to any cause or due to specific upper airway infections. Secondary outcomes were the number of developed complications, such as peritonsillar abscess, post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, rheumatic fever, post-streptococcal arthritis, chorea and death. Results Compared to penicillin-V, adjusted incidence rate ratios (IRR) for additional primary physician visits at 30–days were highest for IM benzathine-benzylpenicillin (IRR = 1.46, CI 1.33–1.60, p < .001) and cephalosporin treatment (IRR = 1.27, CI 1.24–1.30, p < .001). Similar results were noted for visits due to specific diagnoses such as recurrent tonsillitis, otitis media and unspecified upper respiratory tract infection. Amoxicillin showed decreased adjusted odds ratio (aOR) of developing complications (aOR = 0.68, CI 0.52–0.89, p < .01 for any complication. aOR = 0.75, CI 0.55–1.02, p = .07 for peritonsillar or retropharyngeal abscess). Conclusion Penicillin-V treatment is associated with fewer additional primary physician visits compared to other antibiotic treatments. Amoxicillin and penicillin-V are associated with fewer complications. These findings are limited by the retrospective nature of the study and lack of adjustment for illness severity. Further prospective studies may be warranted to validate results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mattan Bar-Yishay
- Department of Family Medicine, Maccabi Healthcare Services, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Department of Family Medicine and Siaal Research Center for Family Medicine and Primary Care, The Haim Doron Division of Community Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Ilan Yehoshua
- Department of Family Medicine, Maccabi Healthcare Services, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Department of Family Medicine and Siaal Research Center for Family Medicine and Primary Care, The Haim Doron Division of Community Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel
| | - Avital Bilitzky
- Department of Family Medicine, Maccabi Healthcare Services, Tel Aviv, Israel.,Maccabitech Institute of Research and Innovation, Maccabi Healthcare Services, Tel Aviv, Israel
| | - Yan Press
- Department of Family Medicine and Siaal Research Center for Family Medicine and Primary Care, The Haim Doron Division of Community Health, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ben-Gurion University of the Negev, Beer-Sheva, Israel.,Department of Geriatrics, Soroka University Medical Center, Beer-Sheva, Israel
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Chan AHY, Beyene K, Tuck C, Rutter V, Ashiru-Oredope D. Pharmacist beliefs about antimicrobial resistance and impacts on antibiotic supply: a multinational survey. JAC Antimicrob Resist 2022; 4:dlac062. [PMID: 36035318 PMCID: PMC9400174 DOI: 10.1093/jacamr/dlac062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pharmacists have important antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) roles yet limited literature exists on pharmacists’ knowledge and beliefs about antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and antimicrobials and how these beliefs influence antimicrobial supply in different countries. Methods A cross-sectional survey was disseminated to pharmacists around the world via the Commonwealth Pharmacists’ Association and related networks. Data were collected on demographics, antibiotic supply practices, and knowledge and beliefs about AMR. Results A total of 546 pharmacists responded from 59 countries, most commonly from Africa (41%) followed by Asia (26%) and Oceania (22%). Respondents supplied a mean of 46 ± 81 antibiotic prescriptions/week, 73%±35% of which were given in response to a prescription. Overall, 60.2% dispensed antibiotics at least once without a prescription. Respondents had good knowledge (mean 9.6 ± 1.3 (out of 12), and held positive beliefs about AMR [mean 3.9 ± 0.6 (out of 5)]. Knowledge about antibiotics and beliefs about AMR were positively correlated. The odds of supplying antibiotics without a prescription were 7.4 times higher among respondents from lower income countries [adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 7.42, 95% CI 4.16–13.24]. Conversely, more positive AMR beliefs were associated with a lower odds of supplying antibiotics without a prescription (AOR = 0.91, 95% CI 0.86–0.95). Conclusions Most pharmacists had the good knowledge about antibiotics and positive beliefs about AMR. These beliefs were influenced by knowledge, work setting, and country income. A proportion of respondents provided antibiotics without a prescription; the likelihood of this occurring was higher in those who held more negative beliefs about AMR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy Hai Yan Chan
- Commonwealth Pharmacists’ Association , London , UK
- School of Pharmacy, University of Auckland, Grafton , Auckland , New Zealand
- UCL School of Pharmacy, University College London , London , UK
| | - Kebede Beyene
- School of Pharmacy, University of Auckland, Grafton , Auckland , New Zealand
| | - Chloe Tuck
- Commonwealth Pharmacists’ Association , London , UK
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Staub MB, Pellegrino R, Gettler E, Johnson MC, Roumie CL, Grijalva CG, Reasoner K, Dittus RS, Hulgan T. Association of antibiotics with veteran visit satisfaction and antibiotic expectations for upper respiratory tract infections. ANTIMICROBIAL STEWARDSHIP & HEALTHCARE EPIDEMIOLOGY : ASHE 2022; 2:e100. [PMID: 36483414 PMCID: PMC9726549 DOI: 10.1017/ash.2022.233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2022] [Revised: 04/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Veterans' Affairs (VA) healthcare providers perceive that Veterans expect and base visit satisfaction on receiving antibiotics for upper respiratory tract infections (URIs). No studies have tested this hypothesis. We sought to determine whether receiving and/or expecting antibiotics were associated with Veteran satisfaction with URI visits. METHODS This cross-sectional study included Veterans evaluated for URI January 2018-December 2019 in an 18-clinic ambulatory VA primary-care system. We evaluated Veteran satisfaction via the Patient Satisfaction Questionnaire Short Form (RAND Corporation), an 18-item 5-point Likert scale survey. Additional items assessed Veteran antibiotic expectations. Antibiotic receipt was determined via medical record review. We used multivariable regression to evaluate whether antibiotic receipt and/or Veteran antibiotic expectations were associated with satisfaction. Subgroup analyses focused on Veterans who accurately remembered antibiotic prescribing during their URI visit. RESULTS Of 1,329 eligible Veterans, 432 (33%) participated. Antibiotic receipt was not associated with differences in mean total satisfaction (adjusted score difference, 0.6 points; 95% confidence interval [CI], -2.1 to 3.3). However, mean total satisfaction was lower for Veterans expecting an antibiotic (adjusted score difference -4.4 points; 95% CI -7.2 to -1.6). Among Veterans who accurately remembered the visit and did not receive an antibiotic, those who expected an antibiotic had lower mean satisfaction scores than those who did not (unadjusted score difference, -16.6 points; 95% CI, -24.6 to -8.6). CONCLUSIONS Veteran expectations for antibiotics, not antibiotic receipt, are associated with changes in satisfaction with outpatient URI visits. Future research should further explore patient expectations and development of patient-centered and provider-focused interventions to change patient antibiotic expectations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Milner B. Staub
- Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center (GRECC), Veterans Health Administration, Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville, Tennessee
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Rachael Pellegrino
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Erin Gettler
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Morgan C. Johnson
- Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center (GRECC), Veterans Health Administration, Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Christianne L. Roumie
- Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center (GRECC), Veterans Health Administration, Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville, Tennessee
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Carlos G. Grijalva
- Division of Pharmacoepidemiology, Department of Health Policy, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee (Present affiliation: Division of Infectious Diseases, Duke University School of Medicine, Durham, North Carolina [E.G.])
| | - Kaitlyn Reasoner
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Robert S. Dittus
- Geriatric Research, Education, and Clinical Center (GRECC), Veterans Health Administration, Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville, Tennessee
- Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
| | - Todd Hulgan
- Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee
- Infectious Diseases Section, Medical Services, Tennessee Valley Healthcare System, Nashville, Tennessee
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12
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Kwan A, Boone CE, Sulis G, Gertler PJ. Do private providers give patients what they demand, even if it is inappropriate? A randomised study using unannounced standardised patients in Kenya. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e058746. [PMID: 35304401 PMCID: PMC8935168 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2021-058746] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Low and varied quality of care has been demonstrated for childhood illnesses in low-income and middle-income countries. Some quality improvement strategies focus on increasing patient engagement; however, evidence suggests that patients demanding medicines can favour the selection of resistant microbial strains in the individual and the community if drugs are inappropriately used. This study examines the effects on quality of care when patients demand different types of inappropriate medicines. METHODS We conducted an experiment where unannounced standardised patients (SPs), locally recruited individuals trained to simulate a standardised case, present at private clinics. Between 8 March and 28 May 2019, 10 SPs portraying caretakers of a watery diarrhoea childhood case scenario (in absentia) conducted N=200 visits at 200 private, primary care clinics in Kenya. Half of the clinics were randomly assigned to receive an SP demanding amoxicillin (an antibiotic); the other half, an SP demanding albendazole (an antiparasitic drug often used for deworming), with other presenting characteristics the same. We used logistic and linear regression models to assess the effects of demanding these inappropriate medicines on correct and unnecessary case management outcomes. RESULTS Compared with 3% among those who did not demand albendazole, the dispensing rate increased significantly to 34% for those who did (adjusted OR 0.06, 95% CI 0.02 to 0.22, p<0.0001). Providers did not give different levels of amoxicillin between those demanding it and those not demanding it (adjusted OR 1.73, 95% CI 0.51 to 5.82). Neither significantly changed any correct management outcomes, such as treatment or referral elsewhere. CONCLUSION Private providers appear to account for both business-driven benefits and individual health impacts when making prescribing decisions. Additional research is needed on provider knowledge and perceptions of profit and individual and community health trade-offs when making prescription decisions after patients demand different types of inappropriate medicines. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBERS American Economic Association Registry (#AEARCTR-0000217) and Pan African Clinical Trial Registry (#PACTR201502000770329).
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Affiliation(s)
- Ada Kwan
- Department of Medicine, University of California San Francisco, San Francisco, California, USA
- Division of Health Policy and Management, University of California Berkeley School of Public Health, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Claire E Boone
- Division of Health Policy and Management, University of California Berkeley School of Public Health, Berkeley, California, USA
| | - Giorgia Sulis
- Department of Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Occupational Health, McGill University, Montreal, Canada
| | - Paul J Gertler
- University of California Berkeley Haas School of Business, Berkeley, California, USA
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13
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Valentine KD, Scherer LD. Interpersonal (mis)perceptions and (mis)predictions in patient-clinician interactions. Curr Opin Psychol 2022; 43:244-248. [PMID: 34461604 PMCID: PMC8801540 DOI: 10.1016/j.copsyc.2021.07.021] [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: 06/21/2021] [Revised: 07/15/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
Patient-clinician interactions require an interpersonal exchange of information, preferences, expectations, values, and priorities. Given the brief interaction patients and clinicians are allowed, many barriers to effective communication exist, resulting in patients and clinicians leaving an interaction with discordant perceptions of what has occurred and what is to come. We review literature on concordance and lack thereof, between patient and clinician perceptions, reasons why discordance may occur, how to decrease discordance as well as how dischordance impacts patient care and outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- KD Valentine
- Massachusetts General Hospital,Harvard Medical School
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14
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Colliers A, Bombeke K, Philips H, Remmen R, Coenen S, Anthierens S. Antibiotic Prescribing and Doctor-Patient Communication During Consultations for Respiratory Tract Infections: A Video Observation Study in Out-of-Hours Primary Care. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:735276. [PMID: 34926492 PMCID: PMC8671733 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.735276] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 10/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Communication skills can reduce inappropriate antibiotic prescribing, which could help to tackle antibiotic resistance. General practitioners often overestimate patient expectations for an antibiotic. In this study, we describe how general practitioners and patients with respiratory tract infections (RTI) communicate about their problem, including the reason for encounter and ideas, concerns, and expectations (ICE), and how this relates to (non-)antibiotic prescribing in out-of-hours (OOH) primary care. Methods: A qualitative descriptive framework analysis of video-recorded consultations during OOH primary care focusing on doctor-patient communication. Results: We analyzed 77 videos from 19 general practitioners. General practitioners using patient-centered communication skills received more information on the perspective of the patients on the illness period. For some patients, the reason for the encounter was motivated by their belief that a general practitioner (GP) visit will alter the course of their illness. The ideas, concerns, and expectations often remained implicit, but the concerns were expressed by the choice of words, tone of voice, repetition of words, etc. Delayed prescribing was sometimes used to respond to implicit patient expectations for an antibiotic. Patients accepted a non-antibiotic management plan well. Conclusion: Not addressing the ICE of patients, or their reason to consult the GP OOH, could drive assumptions about patient expectations for antibiotics early on and antibiotic prescribing later in the consultation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annelies Colliers
- Department of Family Medicine and Population Health (FAMPOP), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | | | - Hilde Philips
- Department of Family Medicine and Population Health (FAMPOP), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Roy Remmen
- Department of Family Medicine and Population Health (FAMPOP), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Samuel Coenen
- Department of Family Medicine and Population Health (FAMPOP), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.,Vaccine and Infectious Disease Institute (VAXINFECTIO)-Laboratory of Medical Microbiology, University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Sibyl Anthierens
- Department of Family Medicine and Population Health (FAMPOP), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
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15
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Richards AR, Linder JA. Behavioral Economics and Ambulatory Antibiotic Stewardship: A Narrative Review. Clin Ther 2021; 43:1654-1667. [PMID: 34702589 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2021.08.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2021] [Revised: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 08/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Behavioral economics recognizes that contextual, psychological, social, and emotional factors powerfully influence decision-making. Behavioral economics has the potential to provide a better understanding of, and, through subtle environmental changes, or "nudges," improve persistent quality-of-care challenges, like ambulatory antibiotic overprescribing. Despite decades of admonitions and educational initiatives, in the United States, up to 50% of ambulatory antibiotic prescriptions remain inappropriate or not associated with a diagnosis. METHODS We conducted a Medline search and performed a narrative review that examined the use of behavioral economics to understand the rationale for, and improvement of, ambulatory antibiotic prescribing. FINDINGS Clinicians prescribe antibiotics inappropriately because of perceived patient demand, to maintain patient satisfaction, diagnostic uncertainty, or time pressure, among other reasons. Behavioral economics-informed approaches offer additional improvements in antibiotic prescribing beyond clinician education and communication training. Precommitment, in which clinicians publicize their intent to prescribe antibiotics "only when they are absolutely necessary," leverages clinicians' self-conception and a desire to act in a manner consistent with public statements. Precommitment was associated with a 20% absolute reduction in the inappropriate antibiotic prescribing for acute respiratory infections. Justification alerts, in which clinicians must provide a brief written rationale for prescribing antibiotics, leverages social accountability, redefines the status quo as an active choice, and helps clinicians to shift from fast to slow, careful thinking. With justification alerts, the absolute rate of inappropriate antibiotic prescribing decreased from 23% to 5%. Peer comparison, in which clinicians receive feedback comparing their performance to their top-performing peers, provides evidence of improved performance and leverages peoples' desire to conform to social norms. Peer comparison decreased absolute inappropriate antibiotic prescribing rates from 20% to 4%, a decrease that persisted for 12 months after the end of the intervention. Also, a one-time peer-comparison letter from a high-profile messenger to primary care practices with high rates of prescribing antibiotics, there was a 6-month, 3% decrease inantibiotic prescribing. Future directions in applying behavioral economics to the inappropriate antibiotic prescribing include paying careful attention to design details; improving intervention effectiveness and durability; making harms salient; participants' involvement in the development of interventions (the "Ikea effect"); factoring in patient satisfaction; and patient-facing nudges about antibiotic use and care-seeking. In addition, the COVID pandemic could aid in ambulatory antibiotic prescribing improvements due to changing cognitive frames around respiratory symptom evaluation and antibiotic prescribing. IMPLICATIONS To improve ambulatory antibiotic prescribing, several behavioral economics-informed approaches-especially precommitment, justification alerts, and peer comparison-have reduced the rates of inappropriate prescribing of antibiotics to low levels.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Jeffrey A Linder
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois.
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16
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Linder JA. Breaking the Ambulatory Antibiotic Prescribing Cycle with All-Antibiotic Stewardship, Patient Stewardship, and Visit Stewardship. Clin Infect Dis 2021; 73:e1680-e1683. [PMID: 32776131 DOI: 10.1093/cid/ciaa1170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jeffrey A Linder
- Division of General Internal Medicine and Geriatrics, Department of Medicine, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois, USA
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17
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Kurotschka PK, Tiedemann E, Wolf D, Thier N, Forster J, Liese JG, Gagyor I. Management of Common Infections in German Primary Care: A Cross-Sectional Survey of Knowledge and Confidence among General Practitioners and Outpatient Pediatricians. Antibiotics (Basel) 2021; 10:antibiotics10091131. [PMID: 34572713 PMCID: PMC8466449 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics10091131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2021] [Revised: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 09/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Outpatient antibiotic use is closely related to antimicrobial resistance and in Germany, almost 70% of antibiotic prescriptions in human health are issued by primary care physicians (PCPs). The aim of this study was to explore PCPs, namely General Practitioners' (GPs) and outpatient pediatricians' (PDs) knowledge of guideline recommendations on rational antimicrobial treatment, the determinants of confidence in treatment decisions and the perceived need for training in this topic in a large sample of PCPs from southern Germany. Out of 3753 reachable PCPs, 1311 completed the survey (overall response rate = 34.9%). Knowledge of guideline recommendations and perceived confidence in making treatment decisions were high in both GPs and PDs. The two highest rated influencing factors on prescribing decisions were reported to be guideline recommendations and own clinical experiences, hence patients' demands and expectations were judged as not influencing treatment decisions. The majority of physicians declared to have attended at least one specific training course on antibiotic use, yet almost all the participating PCPs declared to need more training on this topic. More studies are needed to explore how consultation-related and context-specific factors could influence antibiotic prescriptions in general and pediatric primary care in Germany beyond knowledge. Moreover, efforts should be undertaken to explore the training needs of PCPs in Germany, as this would serve the development of evidence-based educational interventions targeted to the improvement of antibiotic prescribing decisions rather than being focused solely on knowledge of guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter Konstantin Kurotschka
- Department of General Practice, University Hospital Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany; (E.T.); (D.W.); (N.T.); (I.G.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Elena Tiedemann
- Department of General Practice, University Hospital Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany; (E.T.); (D.W.); (N.T.); (I.G.)
| | - Dominik Wolf
- Department of General Practice, University Hospital Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany; (E.T.); (D.W.); (N.T.); (I.G.)
| | - Nicola Thier
- Department of General Practice, University Hospital Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany; (E.T.); (D.W.); (N.T.); (I.G.)
| | - Johannes Forster
- Institute for Hygiene and Microbiology, University of Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany;
| | - Johannes G. Liese
- Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany;
| | - Ildiko Gagyor
- Department of General Practice, University Hospital Würzburg, 97080 Würzburg, Germany; (E.T.); (D.W.); (N.T.); (I.G.)
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18
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Van Katwyk SR, Grimshaw JM, Hoffman SJ. Ten Years of Inaction on Antimicrobial Resistance: An Environmental Scan of Policies in Canada from 2008 to 2018. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2021; 15:48-62. [PMID: 32538349 PMCID: PMC7294451 DOI: 10.12927/hcpol.2020.26224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
We surveyed Canadian healthcare experts to identify policies to address antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in Canada between 2008 and 2018. Respondents identified AMR policy interventions implemented in Canada during the previous 10 years. Additional policies were identified through systematic searches of seven electronic databases and a review of government documents. Fifty-two unique policies were identified, with at least one policy in most provinces and territories. This environmental scan suggests that Canadian AMR efforts are disjointed and inadequate, given the urgency of this public health threat. Governments have mostly refrained from using more powerful policy tools, including regulation, legislation and fiscal measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susan Rogers Van Katwyk
- Investigator, Global Strategy Lab, Dahdaleh Institute for Global Health Research, York University, Toronto, ON
| | - Jeremy M Grimshaw
- Senior Scientist, Clinical Epidemiology Program, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON
| | - Steven J Hoffman
- Dahdaleh Distinguished Chair, Global Governance and Legal Epidemiology, Global Strategy Lab, Professor of Global Health, Law, and Political Science, York University, Toronto, ON
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19
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Perera AI, Thomas MG, Petrie KJ, Frater J, Dang D, Schache KR, Akroyd AF, Ritchie SR. Reducing Expectations for Antibiotics in Patients With Upper Respiratory Tract Infections: A Primary Care Randomized Controlled Trial. Ann Fam Med 2021; 19:232-239. [PMID: 34180843 PMCID: PMC8118493 DOI: 10.1370/afm.2672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2020] [Revised: 10/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Many family practitioners prescribe antibiotics for patients with upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) to meet patients' expectations. We evaluated the impact of providing brief tablet-based information about antibiotic treatment of URTIs on patients' expectations for antibiotics and on family practitioners' antibiotic-prescribing behavior. METHODS We performed a 3-arm randomized controlled trial among patients presenting with URTIs at 2 urban family practices in Auckland, New Zealand, during winter 2018. Participants were randomly allocated to view a presentation about the futility of antibiotic treatment of URTIs, the adverse effects associated with antibiotics, or the benefits of healthy diet and exercise (active control), immediately before their consultation. Before and after viewing the presentations, participants used a Likert scale to rate the strength of their belief that antibiotics are effective for treating URTIs and of their desire to be prescribed an antibiotic. Patients reported whether an antibiotic had been prescribed, and pharmacy dispensing records were reviewed to determine whether an antibiotic was dispensed. RESULTS Participants who viewed either the futility or the adverse effects presentation had greater reductions in their expectations to receive antibiotics than the control group. The mean reduction (95% CI) was 1.1 (0.8-1.3) for the futility group, 0.7 (0.4-0.9) for the adverse effects group, and 0.1 (0-0.3) for the control group (Cohen d = 0.7; P <.001). There was no significant difference among the 3 groups with regard to antibiotic prescribing (P = .84) or dispensing (P = .43). CONCLUSIONS A brief tablet-based waiting room intervention significantly reduced participants' expectations about receiving antibiotics for URTI immediately before their family practitioner consultation. The intervention did not influence family practitioner prescribing behavior, however.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Ishani Perera
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Mark Greenslade Thomas
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,Department of Infectious Diseases, Auckland City Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Keith James Petrie
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | | | - Daniel Dang
- Eastern Institute of Technology, Napier, New Zealand
| | - Kiralee Ruth Schache
- Department of Psychological Medicine, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | | | - Stephen Robert Ritchie
- Department of Molecular Medicine and Pathology, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
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20
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Gulliford MC, Charlton J, Boiko O, Winter JR, Rezel-Potts E, Sun X, Burgess C, McDermott L, Bunce C, Shearer J, Curcin V, Fox R, Hay AD, Little P, Moore MV, Ashworth M. Safety of reducing antibiotic prescribing in primary care: a mixed-methods study. HEALTH SERVICES AND DELIVERY RESEARCH 2021. [DOI: 10.3310/hsdr09090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background
The threat of antimicrobial resistance has led to intensified efforts to reduce antibiotic utilisation, but serious bacterial infections are increasing in frequency.
Objectives
To estimate the risks of serious bacterial infections in association with lower antibiotic prescribing and understand stakeholder views with respect to safe antibiotic reduction.
Design
Mixed-methods research was undertaken, including a qualitative interview study of patient and prescriber views that informed a cohort study and a decision-analytic model, using primary care electronic health records. These three work packages were used to design an application (app) for primary care prescribers.
Data sources
The Clinical Practice Research Datalink.
Setting
This took place in UK general practices.
Participants
A total of 706 general practices with 66.2 million person-years of follow-up from 2002 to 2017 and antibiotic utilisation evaluated for 671,830 registered patients. The qualitative study included 31 patients and 30 health-care professionals from primary care.
Main outcome measures
Sepsis and localised bacterial infections.
Results
Patients were concerned about antimicrobial resistance and the side effects, as well as the benefits, of antibiotic treatment. Prescribers viewed the onset of sepsis as the most concerning potential outcome of reduced antibiotic prescribing. More than 40% of antibiotic prescriptions in primary care had no coded indication recorded across both Vision® and EMIS® practice systems. Antibiotic prescribing rates varied widely between general practices, but there was no evidence that serious bacterial infections were less frequent at higher prescribing practices (adjusted rate ratio for 20% increase in prescribing 1.03, 95% confidence interval 1.00 to 1.06; p = 0.074). The probability of sepsis was lower if an antibiotic was prescribed at an infection consultation, and the number of antibiotic prescriptions required to prevent one episode of sepsis (i.e. the number needed to treat) decreased with age. For those aged 0–4 years, the number needed to treat was 29,773 (95% uncertainty interval 18,458 to 71,091) in boys and 27,014 (95% uncertainty interval 16,739 to 65,709) in girls. For those aged > 85 years, the number needed to treat was 262 (95% uncertainty interval 236 to 293) in men and 385 (95% uncertainty interval 352 to 421) in women. Frailty was associated with a greater risk of sepsis and a smaller number needed to treat. For severely frail patients aged 55–64 years, the number needed to treat was 247 (95% uncertainty interval 156 to 459) for men and 343 (95% uncertainty interval 234 to 556) for women. At all ages, the probability of sepsis was greatest for urinary tract infection, followed by skin infection and respiratory tract infection. The numbers needed to treat were generally smaller for the period 2014–17, when sepsis was diagnosed more frequently. The results are available using an app that we developed to provide primary care prescribers with stratified risk estimates during infection consultations.
Limitations
Analyses were based on non-randomised comparisons. Infection episodes and antibiotic prescribing are poorly documented in primary care.
Conclusions
Antibiotic treatment is generally associated with lower risks, but the most serious bacterial infections remain infrequent even without antibiotic treatment. This research identifies risk strata in which antibiotic prescribing can be more safely reduced.
Future work
The software developed from this research may be further developed and investigated for antimicrobial stewardship effect.
Funding
This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Services and Delivery Research programme and will be published in full in Health Services and Delivery Research; Vol. 9, No. 9. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin C Gulliford
- School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
- National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Judith Charlton
- School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Olga Boiko
- School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Joanne R Winter
- School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
- National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Emma Rezel-Potts
- School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
- National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Xiaohui Sun
- School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Caroline Burgess
- School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Lisa McDermott
- School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Catey Bunce
- School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
- National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - James Shearer
- School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Vasa Curcin
- School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - Robin Fox
- Bicester Health Centre, Bicester, UK
| | - Alastair D Hay
- Centre for Academic Primary Care, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Paul Little
- Primary Care Research Group, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Michael V Moore
- Primary Care Research Group, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Mark Ashworth
- School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
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21
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Saliba-Gustafsson EA, Nyberg A, Borg MA, Rosales-Klintz S, Stålsby Lundborg C. Barriers and facilitators to prudent antibiotic prescribing for acute respiratory tract infections: A qualitative study with general practitioners in Malta. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0246782. [PMID: 33571265 PMCID: PMC7877739 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0246782] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/22/2020] [Accepted: 01/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antibiotic resistance is a leading global public health concern and antibiotic use is a key driver. Effective interventions are needed to target key stakeholders, including general practitioners (GPs). In Malta, little is known about factors that influence GPs' antibiotic prescribing, making it challenging to implement targeted interventions. We therefore aimed to explore GPs' understanding of antibiotic use and resistance, and describe their perceived barriers and facilitators to prudent antibiotic prescribing for acute respiratory tract infections in Malta. METHODS Face-to-face individual semi-structured interviews were held with a quota sample of 20 GPs in 2014. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim, and later analysed iteratively using manifest and latent content analysis. Findings were collated in a socioecological model to depict how GPs as individuals are embedded within larger social systems and contexts, and how each component within this system impacts their prescribing behaviour. FINDINGS We found that GPs' antibiotic prescribing decisions are complex and impacted by numerous barriers and facilitators at the individual, interpersonal, organisational, community, and public policy level. Predominant factors found to impact GPs' antibiotic prescribing included not only intrinsic GP factors such as knowledge, awareness, experience, and misconceptions, but also several external factors. At the interpersonal level, GPs' perceived patient demand and behaviour to be a persistent issue that impacts their prescribing decisions. Similarly, some GPs found pressure from drug reps to be concerning despite being considered an important source of information. Organisational and public policy-level issues such as lack of access to relevant antibiotic prescribing guidelines and current antibiotic resistance data from the community, were also considered major barriers to appropriate antibiotic prescribing. Utilisation of diagnostic testing was found to be low and GPs' perceptions on the introduction of rapid point-of-care tests to support antibiotic prescription decisions, were mixed. CONCLUSION This study revealed the complexity of the antibiotic prescribing decision and the numerous barriers and facilitators that impact it, visualised through a socioecological model. Addressing GPs' antibiotic prescribing practices will require targeted and coordinated implementation activities at all levels to change behaviour and address misconceptions, whilst also improving the physical and social environment. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT03218930; https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03218930.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika A. Saliba-Gustafsson
- Department of Global Public Health, Health Systems and Policy (HSP): Improving Use of Medicines, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Division of Primary Care and Population Health, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, United States of America
| | - Anna Nyberg
- Faculty of Social Sciences, Stockholm University, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Michael A. Borg
- Department of Infection Prevention and Control, Mater Dei Hospital, Msida, Malta
- Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Malta, Msida, Malta
| | - Senia Rosales-Klintz
- Department of Global Public Health, Health Systems and Policy (HSP): Improving Use of Medicines, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Unit of Surveillance and Response Support (SRS), European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, Solna, Sweden
| | - Cecilia Stålsby Lundborg
- Department of Global Public Health, Health Systems and Policy (HSP): Improving Use of Medicines, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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22
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Borek AJ, Campbell A, Dent E, Butler CC, Holmes A, Moore M, Walker AS, McLeod M, Tonkin-Crine S. Implementing interventions to reduce antibiotic use: a qualitative study in high-prescribing practices. BMC FAMILY PRACTICE 2021; 22:25. [PMID: 33485324 PMCID: PMC7825381 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-021-01371-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2020] [Accepted: 01/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Trials have shown that delayed antibiotic prescriptions (DPs) and point-of-care C-Reactive Protein testing (POC-CRPT) are effective in reducing antibiotic use in general practice, but these were not typically implemented in high-prescribing practices. We aimed to explore views of professionals from high-prescribing practices about uptake and implementation of DPs and POC-CRPT to reduce antibiotic use. METHODS This was a qualitative focus group study in English general practices. The highest antibiotic prescribing practices in the West Midlands were invited to participate. Clinical and non-clinical professionals attended focus groups co-facilitated by two researchers. Focus groups were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed thematically. RESULTS Nine practices (50 professionals) participated. Four main themes were identified. Compatibility of strategies with clinical roles and experience - participants viewed the strategies as having limited value as 'clinical tools', perceiving them as useful only in 'rare' instances of clinical uncertainty and/or for those less experienced. Strategies as 'social tools' - participants perceived the strategies as helpful for negotiating treatment decisions and educating patients, particularly those expecting antibiotics. Ambiguities - participants perceived ambiguities around when they should be used, and about their impact on antibiotic use. Influence of context - various other situational and practical issues were raised with implementing the strategies. CONCLUSIONS High-prescribing practices do not view DPs and POC-CRPT as sufficiently useful 'clinical tools' in a way which corresponds to the current policy approach advocating their use to reduce clinical uncertainty and improve antimicrobial stewardship. Instead, policy attention should focus on how these strategies may instead be used as 'social tools' to reduce unnecessary antibiotic use. Attention should also focus on the many ambiguities (concerns and questions) about, and contextual barriers to, using these strategies that need addressing to support wider and more consistent implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra J Borek
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Radcliffe Observatory Quarter, Woodstock Road, Oxford, OX2 6GG, UK.
| | - Anne Campbell
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Protection Research Unit in Healthcare Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Elle Dent
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Radcliffe Observatory Quarter, Woodstock Road, Oxford, OX2 6GG, UK
| | - Christopher C Butler
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Radcliffe Observatory Quarter, Woodstock Road, Oxford, OX2 6GG, UK
| | - Alison Holmes
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Protection Research Unit in Healthcare Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Michael Moore
- Primary Care Population Sciences and Medical Education, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - A Sarah Walker
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Healthcare Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK.,Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Monsey McLeod
- National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Protection Research Unit in Healthcare Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance, Imperial College London, London, UK.,Centre for Medication Safety and Service Quality, Pharmacy Department, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK.,NIHR Imperial Patient Safety Translational Research Centre, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Sarah Tonkin-Crine
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Radcliffe Observatory Quarter, Woodstock Road, Oxford, OX2 6GG, UK.,NIHR Health Protection Research Unit in Healthcare Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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23
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Blaser MJ, Melby MK, Lock M, Nichter M. Accounting for variation in and overuse of antibiotics among humans. Bioessays 2021; 43:e2000163. [PMID: 33410142 DOI: 10.1002/bies.202000163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2020] [Revised: 10/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
Worldwide, antibiotic use is increasing, but many infections against which antibiotics are applied are not even caused by bacteria. Over-the-counter and internet sales preclude physician oversight. Regional differences, between and within countries highlight many potential factors influencing antibiotic use. Taking a systems perspective that considers pharmaceutical commodity chains, we examine antibiotic overuse from the vantage point of both sides of the therapeutic relationship. We examine patterns and expectations of practitioners and patients, institutional policies and pressures, the business strategies of pharmaceutical companies and distributors, and cultural drivers of variation. Solutions to improve antibiotic stewardship include practitioners taking greater responsibility for their antibiotic prescribing, increasing the role of caregivers as diagnosticians rather than medicine providers, improving their communication to patients about antibiotic treatment consequences, lessening the economic influences on prescribing, and identifying antibiotic alternatives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin J Blaser
- Center for Advanced Biotechnology and Medicine, Rutgers University, Piscataway, New Jersey, USA
| | - Melissa K Melby
- Department of Anthropology, University of Delaware, Newark, Delaware, USA
| | - Margaret Lock
- Department of Social Studies of Medicine and Department of Anthropology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Mark Nichter
- School of Anthropology, Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health, Department of Family Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona, USA
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24
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Wagner CE, Prentice JA, Saad-Roy CM, Yang L, Grenfell BT, Levin SA, Laxminarayan R. Economic and Behavioral Influencers of Vaccination and Antimicrobial Use. Front Public Health 2020; 8:614113. [PMID: 33409264 PMCID: PMC7779682 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2020.614113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 12/01/2020] [Indexed: 01/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Despite vast improvements in global vaccination coverage during the last decade, there is a growing trend in vaccine hesitancy and/or refusal globally. This has implications for the acceptance and coverage of a potential vaccine against COVID-19. In the United States, the number of children exempt from vaccination for “philosophical belief-based” non-medical reasons increased in 12 of the 18 states that allowed this policy from 2009 to 2017 (1). Meanwhile, the overuse and misuse of antibiotics, especially in young children, have led to increasing rates of drug resistance that threaten our ability to treat infectious diseases. Vaccine hesitancy and antibiotic overuse exist side-by-side in the same population of young children, and it is unclear why one modality (antibiotics) is universally seen as safe and effective, while the other (vaccines) is seen as potentially hazardous by some. In this review, we consider the drivers shaping the use of vaccines and antibiotics in the context of three factors: individual incentives, risk perceptions, and social norms and group dynamics. We illustrate how these factors contribute to the societal and individual costs of vaccine underuse and antimicrobial overuse. Ultimately, we seek to understand these factors that are at the nexus of infectious disease epidemiology and social science to inform policy-making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline E Wagner
- Department of Bioengineering, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Joseph A Prentice
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, United States
| | - Chadi M Saad-Roy
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, United States.,Lewis-Sigler Institute for Integrative Genomics, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, United States
| | - Luojun Yang
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, United States
| | - Bryan T Grenfell
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, United States.,Princeton School of Public and International Affairs, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, United States.,Fogarty International Center, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, MD, United States
| | - Simon A Levin
- Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, United States.,Princeton Environmental Institute, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, United States
| | - Ramanan Laxminarayan
- Princeton Environmental Institute, Princeton University, Princeton, NJ, United States.,Center for Disease Dynamics, Economics & Policy, Washington, DC, United States
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25
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Borek AJ, Anthierens S, Allison R, Mcnulty CAM, Anyanwu PE, Costelloe C, Walker AS, Butler CC, Tonkin-Crine S. Social and Contextual Influences on Antibiotic Prescribing and Antimicrobial Stewardship: A Qualitative Study with Clinical Commissioning Group and General Practice Professionals. Antibiotics (Basel) 2020; 9:E859. [PMID: 33271843 PMCID: PMC7759918 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics9120859] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2020] [Revised: 11/20/2020] [Accepted: 11/26/2020] [Indexed: 12/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Antibiotic prescribing in England varies considerably between Clinical Commissioning Groups (CCGs) and general practices. We aimed to assess social and contextual factors affecting antibiotic prescribing and engagement with antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) initiatives. Semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with 22 CCG professionals and 19 general practice professionals. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed thematically. Social/contextual influences were grouped into the following four categories: (1) Immediate context, i.e., patients' social characteristics (e.g., deprivation and culture), clinical factors, and practice and clinician characteristics (e.g., "struggling" with staff shortage/turnover) were linked to higher prescribing. (2) Wider context, i.e., pressures on the healthcare system, limited resources, and competing priorities were seen to reduce engagement with AMS. (3) Collaborative and whole system approaches, i.e., communication, multidisciplinary networks, leadership, and teamwork facilitated prioritizing AMS, learning, and consistency. (4) Relativity of appropriate prescribing, i.e., "high" or "appropriate" prescribing was perceived as relative, depending on comparators, and disregarding different contexts, but social norms around antibiotic use among professionals and patients seemed to be changing. Further optimization of antibiotic prescribing would benefit from addressing social/contextual factors and addressing wider health inequalities, not only targeting individual clinicians. Tailoring and adapting to local contexts and constraints, ensuring adequate time and resources for AMS, and collaborative, whole system approaches to promote consistency may help promote AMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aleksandra J. Borek
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX2 6GG, UK; (C.C.B.); (S.T.-C.)
| | - Sibyl Anthierens
- Department of Family Medicine and Population Health, University of Antwerp, 2610 Antwerp, Belgium;
| | - Rosalie Allison
- Primary Care and Interventions Unit, Public Health England, Gloucester GL1 1DQ, UK; (R.A.); (C.A.M.M.)
| | - Cliodna A. M. Mcnulty
- Primary Care and Interventions Unit, Public Health England, Gloucester GL1 1DQ, UK; (R.A.); (C.A.M.M.)
| | - Philip E. Anyanwu
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Imperial College London, London W6 8RP, UK; (P.E.A.); (C.C.)
- School of Medicine, College of Biomedical and Life Sciences, Cardiff University, Cardiff CF14 4XN, UK
| | - Ceire Costelloe
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, Imperial College London, London W6 8RP, UK; (P.E.A.); (C.C.)
| | - Ann Sarah Walker
- National Institute for Health Protection Research Unit in Healthcare Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK;
- National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK
| | - Christopher C. Butler
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX2 6GG, UK; (C.C.B.); (S.T.-C.)
- National Institute for Health Protection Research Unit in Healthcare Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK;
| | - Sarah Tonkin-Crine
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford OX2 6GG, UK; (C.C.B.); (S.T.-C.)
- National Institute for Health Protection Research Unit in Healthcare Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance, Oxford OX3 9DU, UK;
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26
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Boiko O, Burgess C, Fox R, Ashworth M, Gulliford MC. Risks of use and non-use of antibiotics in primary care: qualitative study of prescribers' views. BMJ Open 2020; 10:e038851. [PMID: 33077568 PMCID: PMC7574941 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2020-038851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2020] [Revised: 09/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/23/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The emergence of antimicrobial resistance has led to increasing efforts to reduce unnecessary use of antibiotics in primary care, but potential hazards from bacterial infection continue to cause concern. This study investigated how primary care prescribers perceive risk and safety concerns associated with reduced antibiotic prescribing. METHODS Qualitative study using semistructured interviews conducted with primary care prescribers from 10 general practices in an urban area and a shire town in England. A thematic analysis was conducted. RESULTS Thirty participants were recruited, including twenty-three general practitioners, five nurses and two pharmacists. Three main themes were identified: risk assessment, balancing treatment risks and negotiating decisions and risks. Respondents indicated that their decisions were grounded in clinical risk assessment, but this was informed by different approaches to antibiotic use, with most leaning towards reduced prescribing. Prescribers' perceptions of risk included the consequences of both inappropriate prescribing and inappropriate withholding of antibiotics. Sepsis was viewed as the most concerning potential outcome of non-prescribing, leading to possible patient harm and potential litigation. Risks of antibiotic prescribing included antibiotic resistant and Clostridium difficile infections, as well as side effects, such as rashes, that might lead to possible mislabelling as antibiotic allergy. Prescribers elicited patient preferences for use or avoidance of antibiotics to inform management strategies, which included educational advice, advice on self-management including warning signs, use of delayed prescriptions and safety netting. CONCLUSIONS Attitudes towards antibiotic prescribing are evolving, with reduced antibiotic prescribing now being approached more systematically. The safety trade-offs associated with either use or non-use of antibiotics present difficulties especially when prescribing decisions are inconsistent with patients' expectations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Boiko
- School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Caroline Burgess
- School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Robin Fox
- Bicester Health Centre, Bicester, Oxfordshire, UK
| | - Mark Ashworth
- School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Martin C Gulliford
- School of Population Health and Environmental Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
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27
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Awareness of Appropriate Antibiotic Use in Primary Care for Influenza-Like Illness: Evidence of Improvement from UK Population-Based Surveys. Antibiotics (Basel) 2020; 9:antibiotics9100690. [PMID: 33066092 PMCID: PMC7601947 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics9100690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2020] [Revised: 10/02/2020] [Accepted: 10/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Influenza-like illnesses (ILI) account for a significant portion of inappropriate antibiotic use. Patient expectations for antibiotics for ILI are likely to play a substantial role in ‘unnecessary’ antibiotic consumption. This study aimed to investigate trends in awareness of appropriate antibiotic use and antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Three sequential online surveys of independent representative samples of adults in the United Kingdom investigated expectations for, and consumption of, antibiotics for ILI (May/June 2015 (n = 2064); Oct/Nov 2016 (n = 4000); Mar 2017 (n = 4000)). Respondents were asked whether they thought antibiotics were effective for ILI and about their antibiotic use. Proportions and 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated for each question and interactions with respondent characteristics were tested using logistic regression. Over the three surveys, the proportion of respondents who believed antibiotics would “definitely/probably” help an ILI fell from 37% (95% CI 35–39%) to 28% (95% CI 26–29%). Those who would “definitely/probably” visit a doctor in this situation fell from 48% (95% CI 46–50%) to 36% (95% CI 34–37%), while those who would request antibiotics during a consultation fell from 39% (95% CI 37–41%) to 30% (95% CI 29–32%). The percentage of respondents who found the information we provided about AMR “new/surprising” fell from 34% (95% CI 32–36%) to 28% (95% CI 26–31%). Awareness improved more among black, Asian and minority ethnic (BAME) than white people, with little other evidence of differences in improvements between subgroups. Whilst a degree of selection bias is unavoidable in online survey samples, the results suggest that awareness of AMR and appropriate antibiotic use has recently significantly improved in the United Kingdom, according to a wide range of indicators.
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28
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Boiko O, Gulliford MC, Burgess C. Revisiting patient expectations and experiences of antibiotics in an era of antimicrobial resistance: Qualitative study. Health Expect 2020; 23:1250-1258. [PMID: 32666579 PMCID: PMC7696122 DOI: 10.1111/hex.13102] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2020] [Revised: 06/09/2020] [Accepted: 06/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To investigate contemporary patient expectations and experiences of antibiotic prescribing in England. BACKGROUND Primary care providers' compliance with patient influences has been identified as a motivation for antibiotic-prescribing behaviour. Since 2013, there have been concerted efforts to publicize and address the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance. A fresh qualitative insight into patient expectations and experiences is needed. DESIGN Qualitative study using semi-structured interviews. SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS Two English regions, one an urban metropolitan area and the other a town in rural England. Patients who recently consulted for infections were recruited. The information power approach was used to determine the number of participants, yielding a sample of 31 participants. MAIN MEASURES Thematic analysis was carried out to analyse the interview data. RESULTS Five themes were identified: beliefs, expectations, experiences of taking antibiotic, experience of antimicrobial resistance and side-effects, and experiences of consultations. The accounts reflected improved public knowledge: antibiotics were perceived to be much-needed medicines that should be prescribed when appropriate. The data showed that patients formed expectations of expectations, trying to read the prescribers' intentions and reflect on the dependency between what prescribers and patients wanted. Patient experiences featured as nuanced and detailed with knowledge of AMR and side-effects of antibiotics in the context of positive consultation experiences. CONCLUSIONS The study highlighted complex interplays between adherence to antibiotics and consuming antibiotics in reflexive, informed ways. Ensuring that present and future patients are informed about potential benefits and harms of antibiotic use will contribute to future antimicrobial stewardship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Boiko
- School of Population Health and Environmental SciencesKing’s College LondonLondonUK
| | - Martin C. Gulliford
- School of Population Health and Environmental SciencesKing’s College LondonLondonUK
- National Institute for Health Research Biomedical Research Centre at Guy’s and St Thomas’ National Health Service Foundation TrustLondonUK
| | - Caroline Burgess
- School of Population Health and Environmental SciencesKing’s College LondonLondonUK
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29
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Guideline Adherence in Antibiotic Prescribing to Patients with Respiratory Diseases in Primary Care: Prevalence and Practice Variation. Antibiotics (Basel) 2020; 9:antibiotics9090571. [PMID: 32899123 PMCID: PMC7559889 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics9090571] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2020] [Revised: 08/22/2020] [Accepted: 09/02/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Respiratory tract infections (RTIs) account for a large part of antibiotic prescriptions in primary care. However, guidelines advise restrictive antibiotic prescribing for RTIs. Only in certain circumstances, depending on, e.g., comorbidity, are antibiotics indicated. Most studies on guideline adherence do not account for this. We aimed to assess guideline adherence for antibiotic prescribing for RTIs as well as its variation between general practices (GPs), accounting for patient characteristics. We used data from electronic health records of GPs in the Netherlands. We selected patients who consulted their GP for acute cough, rhinitis, rhinosinusitis or sore throat in 2014. For each disease episode we assessed whether, according to the GP guideline, there was an indication for antibiotics, using the patient's sociodemographic characteristics, comorbidity and co-medication. We assessed antibiotic prescribing for episodes with no or an unsure indication according to the guidelines. We analysed 248,896 episodes. Diagnoses with high rates of antibiotic prescribing when there was no indication include acute tonsillitis (57%), strep throat (56%), acute bronchitis (51%) and acute sinusitis (48%). Prescribing rates vary greatly between diagnoses and practices. Reduction of inappropriate antibiotic prescribing remains a key target to tackle antimicrobial resistance. Insight into reasons for guideline non-adherence may guide successful implementation of the variety of interventions already available for GPs and patients.
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30
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Ordóñez-Mena JM, Fanshawe TR, Butler CC, Mant D, Longhurst D, Muir P, Vipond B, Little P, Moore M, Stuart B, Hay AD, Thornton HV, Thompson MJ, Smith S, Van den Bruel A, Hardy V, Cheah L, Crook D, Knox K. Relationship between microbiology of throat swab and clinical course among primary care patients with acute cough: a prospective cohort study. Fam Pract 2020; 37:332-339. [PMID: 31844897 PMCID: PMC7108489 DOI: 10.1093/fampra/cmz093] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acute lower respiratory tract infections (ALRTIs) account for most antibiotics prescribed in primary care despite lack of efficacy, partly due to clinician uncertainty about aetiology and patient concerns about illness course. Nucleic acid amplification tests could assist antibiotic targeting. METHODS In this prospective cohort study, 645 patients presenting to primary care with acute cough and suspected ALRTI, provided throat swabs at baseline. These were tested for respiratory pathogens by real-time polymerase chain reaction and classified as having a respiratory virus, bacteria, both or neither. Three hundred fifty-four participants scored the symptoms severity daily for 1 week in a diary (0 = absent to 4 = severe problem). RESULTS Organisms were identified in 346/645 (53.6%) participants. There were differences in the prevalence of seven symptoms between the organism groups at baseline. Those with a virus alone, and those with both virus and bacteria, had higher average severity scores of all symptoms combined during the week of follow-up than those in whom no organisms were detected [adjusted mean differences 0.204 (95% confidence interval 0.010 to 0.398) and 0.348 (0.098 to 0.598), respectively]. There were no differences in the duration of symptoms rated as moderate or severe between organism groups. CONCLUSIONS Differences in presenting symptoms and symptoms severity can be identified between patients with viruses and bacteria identified on throat swabs. The magnitude of these differences is unlikely to influence management. Most patients had mild symptoms at 7 days regardless of aetiology, which could inform patients about likely symptom duration.
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Affiliation(s)
- José M Ordóñez-Mena
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.,NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Thomas R Fanshawe
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Chris C Butler
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - David Mant
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Denise Longhurst
- South West Regional Laboratory, National Infection Service, Public Health England, Bristol, UK
| | - Peter Muir
- South West Regional Laboratory, National Infection Service, Public Health England, Bristol, UK
| | - Barry Vipond
- South West Regional Laboratory, National Infection Service, Public Health England, Bristol, UK
| | - Paul Little
- University of Southampton, Primary Care and Population Sciences, Aldermoor Health Centre, Southampton, UK
| | - Michael Moore
- University of Southampton, Primary Care and Population Sciences, Aldermoor Health Centre, Southampton, UK
| | - Beth Stuart
- University of Southampton, Primary Care and Population Sciences, Aldermoor Health Centre, Southampton, UK
| | - Alastair D Hay
- Centre for Academic Primary Care, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Hannah V Thornton
- Centre for Academic Primary Care, Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, UK
| | - Matthew J Thompson
- Department of Family Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Sue Smith
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | | | - Victoria Hardy
- Department of Public Health and Primary Care, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Laikin Cheah
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Derrick Crook
- Nuffield Department of Clinical Laboratory Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Kyle Knox
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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31
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Sarwar A, Butt MA, Hafeez S, Danish MZ. Rapid emergence of antibacterial resistance by bacterial isolates from patients of gynecological infections in Punjab, Pakistan. J Infect Public Health 2020; 13:1972-1980. [PMID: 32605779 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2020.06.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2019] [Revised: 09/16/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND PROBLEM Antibiotic resistance is considered a global problem, where highly emerging antibacterial resistance is posing a great threat to treat infections. OBJECTIVES The present study is aimed to highlight emerging resistance of bacteria to commonly used antibiotics in Pakistan. METHODS The samples for bacterial culture were obtained using high vaginal swabs (HVS) from female genitalia. The specimens were incubated and identified for subsequent pathogenic bacterial growth. There were 370 bacterial isolates from 520 females provisionally diagnosed for gynecological infections. RESULTS Out of total 9 isolated bacteria, Escherichia coli were most common isolates (41.6%) followed by Staphylococcus aureus (15.4%), and coagulase negative staphylococci (12.2%). E. coli exhibited maximum susceptibility to meropenem (98.2%) and imipenem (97.7%) and least to amoxicillin (9.8%) and ampicillin (9.6%). The highest incidence of bacterial infection was found in age group of 26-35 years. Among Gram-positive bacteria, 98.7%, 88.2% and 81.3% were susceptible to vancomycin, cefuroxime and linezolid respectively. For Gram-negative bacteria, 94.3%, 93.6% were susceptible to cefoperazone/sulbactam and meropenem respectively. Recurrence of infection developed among 3.27% of the patients, while two patients died with the infection. CONCLUSION Maximum resistance was shown by co-trimoxazole (81.4%), followed by amoxicillin (80.2%). After identifying the causative strain, the susceptible antibiotic should be administered to reduce antibiotic resistance and better control of gynecological infections in female Pakistani population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ammar Sarwar
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Veterinary & Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan; University College of Pharmacy, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan; Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, PR China.
| | - Mobasher A Butt
- Institute of Pharmacy, Gulab Devi Educational Complex, Lahore, Pakistan.
| | - Saira Hafeez
- Institute of Pharmacy, Gulab Devi Educational Complex, Lahore, Pakistan; University College of Pharmacy, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Z Danish
- University College of Pharmacy, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
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32
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C-reactive protein-guided antibiotic prescribing for COPD exacerbations: a qualitative evaluation. Br J Gen Pract 2020; 70:e505-e513. [PMID: 32424045 PMCID: PMC7239040 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp20x709865] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2019] [Accepted: 12/23/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Antibiotics are prescribed to >70% of patients presenting in primary care with an acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD). The PACE randomised controlled trial found that a C-reactive protein point-of-care test (CRP-POCT) management strategy for AECOPD in primary care resulted in a 20% reduction in patient-reported antibiotic consumption over 4 weeks. Aim To understand perceptions of the value of CRP-POCT for guiding antibiotic prescribing for AECOPD; explore possible mechanisms, mediators, and pathways to effects; and identify potential barriers and facilitators to implementation from the perspectives of patients and clinicians. Design and setting Qualitative process evaluation in UK general practices. Method Semi-structured telephone interviews with 20 patients presenting with an AECOPD and 20 primary care staff, purposively sampled from the PACE study. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analysed using framework analysis. Results Patients and clinicians felt that CRP-POCT was useful in guiding clinicians’ antibiotic prescribing decisions for AECOPD, and were positive about introduction of the test in routine care. The CRP-POCT enhanced clinician confidence in antibiotic prescribing decisions, reduced decisional ambiguity, and facilitated communication with patients. Some clinicians thought the CRP-POCT should be routinely used in consultations for AECOPD; others favoured use only when there was decisional uncertainty. CRP-POCT cartridge preparation time and cost were potential barriers to implementation. Conclusion CRP-POCT-guided antibiotic prescribing for AECOPD had high acceptability, but commissioning arrangements and further simplification of the CRP-POCT need attention to facilitate implementation in routine practice.
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Kianmehr H, Sabounchi NS, Sabounchi SS, Cosler LE. A system dynamics model of infection risk, expectations, and perceptions on antibiotic prescribing in the United States. J Eval Clin Pract 2020; 26:1054-1064. [PMID: 31206901 DOI: 10.1111/jep.13203] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2019] [Revised: 05/08/2019] [Accepted: 05/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE, AIMS, AND OBJECTIVES Inappropriate antibiotic prescribing is still a major concern that can lead to devastating outcomes including antibiotic resistance. This study aimed to simulate the antibiotic prescribing behaviour by providers for acute respiratory tract infections (ARTIs) and to evaluate the impact of patient expectation, provider's perception of patient's expectation to receive a prescription, and patient's risk for bacterial infection, on the decision to prescribe. METHODS We developed a unique system dynamics (SD) simulation model based on the significant factors that impact the interaction between provider and patient during visits for ARTIs and the decision to prescribe antibiotics. In order to validate the model for different age groups and regions in the United States, we used the sample of 53 000 ARTI patient visits made at outpatient settings between 1993 and 2015, based on the National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (NAMCS). RESULTS Simulation results reveal that physician diagnosis for prescribing antibiotics is based on physician's experience from their prior prescribing behaviour, their perception of patient's infection risk, and patient's expectation to receive antibiotics. Also, there are some variations depending on patient's age and residential region. The simulation analysis also depicts the decreasing trend in patient's expectation over the past two decades for most age groups and regions. CONCLUSIONS Given the high number of unnecessary prescriptions for ARTI, we found that policies are needed to influence provider's prescribing behaviour through patient's expectation and provider's perception regarding those expectations. Our simulation framework can further be used by policymakers to design and evaluate interventions that may modify the interaction between health providers and patients to optimize antibiotic prescriptions among ARTI patients for different regions and age groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamed Kianmehr
- Thomas J. Watson School of Engineering and Applied Science, Binghamton University, Binghamton, New York
| | - Nasim S Sabounchi
- Thomas J. Watson School of Engineering and Applied Science, Binghamton University, Binghamton, New York
| | | | - Leon E Cosler
- Founding Chair, Department of Health Outcomes and Administrative Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binghamton University, Binghamton, New York
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Optimising management of UTIs in primary care: a qualitative study of patient and GP perspectives to inform the development of an evidence-based, shared decision-making resource. Br J Gen Pract 2020; 70:e330-e338. [PMID: 32041765 PMCID: PMC7015159 DOI: 10.3399/bjgp20x708173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 08/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are one of the most common bacterial infections managed in general practice. Many women with symptoms of uncomplicated UTI may not benefit meaningfully from antibiotic treatment, but the evidence base is complex and there is no suitable shared decision-making resource to guide antibiotic treatment and symptomatic care for use in general practice consultations. Aim To develop an evidence-based, shared decision-making intervention leaflet to optimise management of uncomplicated UTI for women aged <65 years in the primary care setting. Design and setting Qualitative telephone interviews with GPs and patient focus group interviews. Method In-depth interviews were conducted to explore how consultation discussions around diagnosis, antibiotic use, self-care, safety netting, and prevention of UTI could be improved. Interview schedules were based on the Theoretical Domains Framework. Results Barriers to an effective joint consultation and appropriate prescribing included: lack of GP time, misunderstanding of depth of knowledge and miscommunication between the patient and the GP, nature of the consults (such as telephone consultations), and a history of previous antibiotic therapy. Conclusion Consultation time pressures combined with late symptom presentation are a challenge for even the most experienced of GPs: however, it is clear that enhanced patient–clinician shared decision making is urgently required when it comes to UTIs. This communication should incorporate the provision of self-care, safety netting, and preventive advice to help guide patients when to consult. A shared decision-making information leaflet was iteratively co-produced with patients, clinicians, and researchers at Public Health England using study data.
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Roope LSJ, Tonkin-Crine S, Herd N, Michie S, Pouwels KB, Castro-Sanchez E, Sallis A, Hopkins S, Robotham JV, Crook DW, Peto T, Peters M, Butler CC, Walker AS, Wordsworth S. Reducing expectations for antibiotics in primary care: a randomised experiment to test the response to fear-based messages about antimicrobial resistance. BMC Med 2020; 18:110. [PMID: 32321478 PMCID: PMC7178623 DOI: 10.1186/s12916-020-01553-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2020] [Accepted: 03/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To reduce inappropriate antibiotic use, public health campaigns often provide fear-based information about antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Meta-analyses have found that fear-based campaigns in other contexts are likely to be ineffective unless respondents feel confident they can carry out the recommended behaviour ('self-efficacy'). This study aimed to test the likely impact of fear-based messages, with and without empowering self-efficacy elements, on patient consultations/antibiotic requests for influenza-like illnesses, using a randomised design. METHODS We hypothesised that fear-based messages containing empowering information about self-management without antibiotics would be more effective than fear alone, particularly in a pre-specified subgroup with low AMR awareness. Four thousand respondents from an online panel, representative of UK adults, were randomised to receive three different messages about antibiotic use and AMR, designed to induce fear about AMR to varying degrees. Two messages (one 'strong-fear', one 'mild-fear') also contained empowering information regarding influenza-like symptoms being easily self-managed without antibiotics. The main outcome measures were self-reported effect of information on likelihood of visiting a doctor and requesting antibiotics, for influenza-like illness, analysed separately according to whether or not the AMR information was 'very/somewhat new' to respondents, pre-specified based on a previous (non-randomised) survey. RESULTS The 'fear-only' message was 'very/somewhat new' to 285/1000 (28.5%) respondents, 'mild-fear-plus-empowerment' to 336/1500 (22.4%), and 'strong-fear-plus-empowerment' to 388/1500 (25.9%) (p = 0.002). Of those for whom the respective information was 'very/somewhat new', only those given the 'strong-fear-plus-empowerment' message said they would be less likely to request antibiotics if they visited a doctor for an influenza-like illness (p < 0.0001; 182/388 (46.9%) 'much less likely'/'less likely', versus 116/336 (34.5%) with 'mild-fear-plus-empowerment' versus 85/285 (29.8%) with 'fear-alone'). Those for whom the respective information was not 'very/somewhat new' said they would be less likely to request antibiotics for influenza-like illness (p < 0.0001) across all messages (interaction p < 0.0001 versus 'very/somewhat new' subgroup). The three messages had analogous self-reported effects on likelihood of visiting a doctor and in subgroups defined by believing antibiotics would 'definitely/probably' help an influenza-like illness. Results were reproduced in an independent randomised survey (additional 4000 adults). CONCLUSIONS Fear could be effective in public campaigns to reduce inappropriate antibiotic use, but should be combined with messages empowering patients to self-manage symptoms effectively without antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurence S J Roope
- Health Economics Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7LF, UK
- The National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Healthcare Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance at the University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Sarah Tonkin-Crine
- The National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Healthcare Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance at the University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Natalie Herd
- Centre for Behaviour Change, University College London, London, UK
| | - Susan Michie
- Centre for Behaviour Change, University College London, London, UK
| | - Koen B Pouwels
- Health Economics Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7LF, UK
- The National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Healthcare Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance at the University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Enrique Castro-Sanchez
- NIHR Health Protection Research Unit, Healthcare Associated Infection and Antimicrobial Resistance at Imperial College, London, UK
| | | | - Susan Hopkins
- The National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Healthcare Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance at the University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Healthcare-Associated Infection and Antimicrobial Resistance Division, National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, UK
- Directorate of Infection, Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Julie V Robotham
- The National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Healthcare Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance at the University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Modelling and Economics Unit, National Infection Service, Public Health England, London, UK
| | - Derrick W Crook
- The National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Healthcare Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance at the University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Tim Peto
- The National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Healthcare Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance at the University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust, Oxford, UK
| | - Michele Peters
- Health Services Research Unit, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Christopher C Butler
- The National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Healthcare Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance at the University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - A Sarah Walker
- The National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Healthcare Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance at the University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
- Nuffield Department of Medicine, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Sarah Wordsworth
- Health Economics Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Old Road Campus, Headington, Oxford, OX3 7LF, UK.
- The National Institute for Health Research Health Protection Research Unit in Healthcare Associated Infections and Antimicrobial Resistance at the University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
- NIHR Oxford Biomedical Research Centre, John Radcliffe Hospital, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK.
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Martin D, Konrad M, Adarkwah CC, Kostev K. Reduced antibiotic use after initial treatment of acute respiratory infections with phytopharmaceuticals- a retrospective cohort study. Postgrad Med 2020; 132:412-418. [PMID: 32312131 DOI: 10.1080/00325481.2020.1751497] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We examined the relationship between the initial treatment of acute lower and upper tract respiratory infections with phytopharmaceuticals and the duration of the disease as well as between the initial treatment and the use of antibiotics in the further course of the disease. METHOD Outpatients from the IMS® Disease Analyzer database with diagnoses of acute respiratory infections between January 2015 and March 2019 were observed for 30 days. Patients who had been prescribed phytopharmaceuticals on the day of their diagnosis were matched with controls who had not received such prescriptions by treating practice, diagnosis, age, sex, insurance status, index year, and Charlson comorbidity score. Patients antibiotic precriptions on the day of diagnosis were excluded. Logistic regression was used to investigate the relationship between phytopharmaceutical prescription, antibiotic prescription in the further course of the disease, and duration of sick leave. RESULTS A total of 117,182 patients who had been prescribed phytopharmaceuticals and an equal number of controls were available for analysis. Phytotherapeutics were associated with fewer antibiotic prescriptions. Extract of Pelargonium sidoides root (odds ratio (OR) 0.49 [0.43-0.57]) and thyme extract (OR 0.62 [0.49-0.76]) exhibited the strongest effect among patients treated by general practitioners, while Pelargonium sidoides root extract (OR 0.57 [0.38-0.84]), thyme and ivy extract (OR 0.66 [0.60-0.73]), and thyme and primrose root extract (OR 0.67 [0.47-0.96]) proved most effective in pediatric patients. Patients receiving phytopharmaceuticals had a significantly lower risk of prolonged periods of sick leave. The risk of sick leave durations of >7 days was most markedly reduced in patients taking cineole (OR 0.74 [0.63-0.86]) and Pelargonium root extract (OR 0.79 [0.54-0.96]). CONCLUSION The use of selected phytopharmaceuticals for acute respiratory infections is associated with a significantly reduced need for antibiotic prescriptions in the further course of the disease, as well as significantly shorter sick leaves.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Martin
- Integrative and Anthroposophic Medicine, University of Witten/Herdecke , Witten, Germany
| | - Marcel Konrad
- Health & Social, FOM University of Applied Sciences for Economics and Management , Frankfurt, Germany
| | - Charles Christian Adarkwah
- Faculty of Life Sciences, University of Siegen , Siegen, Germany.,Department of General Practice, Philipps University of Marburg , Marburg, Germany
| | - Karel Kostev
- Epidemiology, IQVIA , Frankfurt Am Main, Germany
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Li D, Conson M, Kim N, Yasuda M, Ivy D, Diec S, Godley P. Patient and provider characteristics and outcomes associated with outpatient antibiotic overuse in acute adult bronchitis. Proc AMIA Symp 2020; 33:183-187. [PMID: 32313457 PMCID: PMC7155999 DOI: 10.1080/08998280.2019.1708667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2019] [Revised: 11/29/2019] [Accepted: 12/12/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Nonbacterial acute bronchitis leads to many outpatient clinic visits in the US that result in an antibiotic prescription. Understanding antibiotic prescribing patterns and their clinical consequences will help improve antimicrobial stewardship efforts. A retrospective chart review was conducted to identify any correlations between patient and provider characteristics with antibiotic use in adult acute bronchitis (AAB) and to compare the clinical outcomes and rates of health care utilization between those who did and did not receive antibiotics. Study participants included adults with uncomplicated AAB seen by family medicine or internal medicine, specialty, and mid-level practitioners in a Baylor Scott & White Health outpatient facility. Phase 1 investigated whether prescribing rates varied by provider- or patient-level characteristics. Phase 2 compared clinical outcomes and health care utilization between patients who received an antibiotic versus those who did not receive an antibiotic for AAB. Among 35,383 visits for AAB, 81.4% resulted in a prescription for an antibiotic. Physicians >35 years of age and internal and family medicine physicians were more likely to prescribe antibiotics. Health care utilization rates did not differ between cohorts. The number of Clostridium difficile events was negligible.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana Li
- Department of Outpatient Pharmacy, Baylor Health EnterprisesTempleTexas
| | - Maricar Conson
- Department of Outpatient Pharmacy, Baylor Health EnterprisesTempleTexas
| | - Nina Kim
- Department of Health Outcomes, The University of Texas College of PharmacyAustinTexas
| | - Marie Yasuda
- Department of Health Outcomes, The University of Texas College of PharmacyAustinTexas
| | - Delaney Ivy
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Texas A&M University Irma Lerma Rangel College of PharmacyKingsvilleTexas
| | - Sandy Diec
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Texas A&M University Irma Lerma Rangel College of PharmacyKingsvilleTexas
| | - Paul Godley
- Department of Outpatient Pharmacy, Baylor Health EnterprisesTempleTexas
- Department of Health Outcomes, The University of Texas College of PharmacyAustinTexas
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Francis NA, Gillespie D, White P, Bates J, Lowe R, Sewell B, Phillips R, Stanton H, Kirby N, Wootton M, Thomas-Jones E, Hood K, Llor C, Cals J, Melbye H, Naik G, Gal M, Fitzsimmons D, Alam MF, Riga E, Cochrane A, Butler CC. C-reactive protein point-of-care testing for safely reducing antibiotics for acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: the PACE RCT. Health Technol Assess 2020; 24:1-108. [PMID: 32202490 PMCID: PMC7132534 DOI: 10.3310/hta24150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Most patients presenting with acute exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD) in primary care are prescribed antibiotics, but these may not be beneficial, and they can cause side effects and increase the risk of subsequent resistant infections. Point-of-care tests (POCTs) could safely reduce inappropriate antibiotic prescribing and antimicrobial resistance. OBJECTIVE To determine whether or not the use of a C-reactive protein (CRP) POCT to guide prescribing decisions for AECOPD reduces antibiotic consumption without having a negative impact on chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) health status and is cost-effective. DESIGN A multicentre, parallel-arm, randomised controlled open trial with an embedded process, and a health economic evaluation. SETTING General practices in Wales and England. A UK NHS perspective was used for the economic analysis. PARTICIPANTS Adults (aged ≥ 40 years) with a primary care diagnosis of COPD, presenting with an AECOPD (with at least one of increased dyspnoea, increased sputum volume and increased sputum purulence) of between 24 hours' and 21 days' duration. INTERVENTION CRP POCTs to guide antibiotic prescribing decisions for AECOPD, compared with usual care (no CRP POCT), using remote online randomisation. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Patient-reported antibiotic consumption for AECOPD within 4 weeks post randomisation and COPD health status as measured with the Clinical COPD Questionnaire (CCQ) at 2 weeks. For the economic evaluation, patient-reported resource use and the EuroQol-5 Dimensions were included. RESULTS In total, 653 participants were randomised from 86 general practices. Three withdrew consent and one was randomised in error, leaving 324 participants in the usual-care arm and 325 participants in the CRP POCT arm. Antibiotics were consumed for AECOPD by 212 out of 274 participants (77.4%) and 150 out of 263 participants (57.0%) in the usual-care and CRP POCT arm, respectively [adjusted odds ratio 0.31, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.20 to 0.47]. The CCQ analysis comprised 282 and 281 participants in the usual-care and CRP POCT arms, respectively, and the adjusted mean CCQ score difference at 2 weeks was 0.19 points (two-sided 90% CI -0.33 to -0.05 points). The upper limit of the CI did not contain the prespecified non-inferiority margin of 0.3. The total cost from a NHS perspective at 4 weeks was £17.59 per patient higher in the CRP POCT arm (95% CI -£34.80 to £69.98; p = 0.408). The mean incremental cost-effectiveness ratios were £222 per 1% reduction in antibiotic consumption compared with usual care at 4 weeks and £15,251 per quality-adjusted life-year gained at 6 months with no significant changes in sensitivity analyses. Patients and clinicians were generally supportive of including CRP POCT in the assessment of AECOPD. CONCLUSIONS A CRP POCT diagnostic strategy achieved meaningful reductions in patient-reported antibiotic consumption without impairing COPD health status or increasing costs. There were no associated harms and both patients and clinicians valued the diagnostic strategy. FUTURE WORK Implementation studies that also build on our qualitative findings could help determine the effect of this intervention over the longer term. TRIAL REGISTRATION Current Controlled Trials ISRCTN24346473. FUNDING This project was funded by the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Health Technology Assessment programme and will be published in full in Health Technology Assessment; Vol. 24, No. 15. See the NIHR Journals Library website for further project information.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nick A Francis
- Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - David Gillespie
- South East Wales Trials Unit, Centre for Trials Research, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Patrick White
- Department of Primary Care & Public Health Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Janine Bates
- South East Wales Trials Unit, Centre for Trials Research, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Rachel Lowe
- South East Wales Trials Unit, Centre for Trials Research, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Bernadette Sewell
- Swansea Centre for Health Economics, College of Human and Health Sciences, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Rhiannon Phillips
- Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Helen Stanton
- South East Wales Trials Unit, Centre for Trials Research, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Nigel Kirby
- South East Wales Trials Unit, Centre for Trials Research, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Mandy Wootton
- Specialist Antimicrobial Chemotherapy Unit, University Hospital of Wales, Cardiff, UK
| | - Emma Thomas-Jones
- South East Wales Trials Unit, Centre for Trials Research, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Kerenza Hood
- South East Wales Trials Unit, Centre for Trials Research, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Carl Llor
- University Institute in Primary Care Research Jordi Gol, Via Roma Health Centre, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jochen Cals
- Department of Family Medicine, CAPHRI Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Hasse Melbye
- General Practice Research Unit, Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø - The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Gurudutt Naik
- Department of Wound Healing, University Hospital Wales, Cardiff, UK
| | - Micaela Gal
- Wales Primary and Emergency Care Research Centre, Division of Population Medicine, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Deborah Fitzsimmons
- Swansea Centre for Health Economics, College of Human and Health Sciences, Swansea University, Swansea, UK
| | - Mohammed Fasihul Alam
- Department of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Evgenia Riga
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Ann Cochrane
- Department of Primary Care & Public Health Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Christopher C Butler
- Primary Care and Vaccines Collaborative Clinical Trials Unit, University of Oxford, John Radcliffe Hospital, Oxford, UK
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Boere TM, van Buul LW, Hopstaken RM, Veenhuizen RB, van Tulder MW, Cals JWL, Verheij TJM, Hertogh CMPM. Using point-of-care C-reactive protein to guide antibiotic prescribing for lower respiratory tract infections in elderly nursing home residents (UPCARE): study design of a cluster randomized controlled trial. BMC Health Serv Res 2020; 20:149. [PMID: 32103747 PMCID: PMC7045632 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-020-5006-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2019] [Accepted: 02/17/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Antibiotics are over-prescribed for lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI) in nursing home residents due to diagnostic uncertainty. Inappropriate antibiotic use is undesirable both on patient level, considering their exposure to side effects and drug interactions, and on societal level, given the development of antibiotic resistance. C-reactive protein (CRP) point-of-care testing (POCT) may be a promising diagnostic tool to reduce antibiotic prescribing for LRTI in nursing homes. The UPCARE study will evaluate whether the use of CRP POCT for suspected LRTI is (cost-) effective in reducing antibiotic prescribing in the nursing home setting. Methods/design A cluster randomized controlled trial will be conducted in eleven nursing homes in the Netherlands, with the nursing home as the unit of randomization. Residents with suspected LRTI who reside at a psychogeriatric, somatic, or geriatric rehabilitation ward are eligible for study participation. Nursing homes in the intervention group will provide care as usual with the possibility to use CRP POCT, and the control group will provide care as usual without CRP POCT for residents with (suspected) LRTI. Data will be collected from September 2018 for approximately 1.5 year, using case report forms that are integrated in the electronic patient record system. The primary study outcome is antibiotic prescribing for suspected LRTI at index consultation (yes/no). Discussion This is the first randomised trial to evaluate the effect of nursing home access to and training in the use of CRP POCT on antibiotic prescribing for LRTI, yielding high-level evidence and contributing to antibiotic stewardship in the nursing home setting. The relatively broad inclusion criteria and the pragmatic study design add to the applicability and generalizability of the study results. Trial registration Netherlands Trial Register, Trial NL5054. Registered 29 August 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tjarda M Boere
- Department of General Practice & Old Age Medicine, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Center, location VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Laura W van Buul
- Department of General Practice & Old Age Medicine, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Center, location VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
| | | | - Ruth B Veenhuizen
- Department of General Practice & Old Age Medicine, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Center, location VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | | | - Jochen W L Cals
- Department of Family Medicine, CAPHRI Care and Public Health Research Institute, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Theo J M Verheij
- National lnstitute for Public Health and the Environment (RlVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands.,Department of General Practice, Julius Centrum, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, the Netherlands
| | - Cees M P M Hertogh
- Department of General Practice & Old Age Medicine, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam University Medical Center, location VU University Medical Center, Amsterdam, the Netherlands.,National lnstitute for Public Health and the Environment (RlVM), Bilthoven, the Netherlands
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Godman B, Haque M, McKimm J, Abu Bakar M, Sneddon J, Wale J, Campbell S, Martin AP, Hoxha I, Abilova V, Anand Paramadhas BD, Mpinda-Joseph P, Matome M, de Lemos LLP, Sefah I, Kurdi A, Opanga S, Jakupi A, Saleem Z, Hassali MA, Kibuule D, Fadare J, Bochenek T, Rothe C, Furst J, Markovic-Pekovic V, Bojanić L, Schellack N, Meyer JC, Matsebula Z, Phuong TNT, Thanh BN, Jan S, Kalungia A, Mtapuri-Zinyowera S, Sartelli M, Hill R. Ongoing strategies to improve the management of upper respiratory tract infections and reduce inappropriate antibiotic use particularly among lower and middle-income countries: findings and implications for the future. Curr Med Res Opin 2020; 36:301-327. [PMID: 31794332 DOI: 10.1080/03007995.2019.1700947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Antibiotics are indispensable to maintaining human health; however, their overuse has resulted in resistant organisms, increasing morbidity, mortality and costs. Increasing antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major public health threat, resulting in multiple campaigns across countries to improve appropriate antimicrobial use. This includes addressing the overuse of antimicrobials for self-limiting infections, such as upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs), particularly in lower- and middle-income countries (LMICs) where there is the greatest inappropriate use and where antibiotic utilization has increased the most in recent years. Consequently, there is a need to document current practices and successful initiatives in LMICs to improve future antimicrobial use.Methodology: Documentation of current epidemiology and management of URTIs, particularly in LMICs, as well as campaigns to improve future antimicrobial use and their influence where known.Results: Much concern remains regarding the prescribing and dispensing of antibiotics for URTIs among LMICs. This includes considerable self-purchasing, up to 100% of pharmacies in some LMICs. However, multiple activities are now ongoing to improve future use. These incorporate educational initiatives among all key stakeholder groups, as well as legislation and other activities to reduce self-purchasing as part of National Action Plans (NAPs). Further activities are still needed however. These include increased physician and pharmacist education, starting in medical and pharmacy schools; greater monitoring of prescribing and dispensing practices, including the development of pertinent quality indicators; and targeted patient information and health education campaigns. It is recognized that such activities are more challenging in LMICs given more limited resources and a lack of healthcare professionals.Conclusion: Initiatives will grow across LMICs to reduce inappropriate prescribing and dispensing of antimicrobials for URTIs as part of NAPs and other activities, and these will be monitored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Brian Godman
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
- Health Economics Centre, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Mainul Haque
- Unit of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Defence Health, Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (National Defence University of Malaysia), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Judy McKimm
- Swansea University School of Medicine, Grove Building, Swansea University, Wales UK
| | - Muhamad Abu Bakar
- Unit of Otolaryngology, Faculty of Medicine and Defence Health, Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (National Defence University of Malaysia), Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | | | - Janney Wale
- Independent Consumer Advocate, Brunswick, Victoria, Australia
| | - Stephen Campbell
- Centre for Primary Care, Division of Population Health, Health Services Research and Primary Care, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
- NIHR Greater Manchester Patient Safety Translational Research Centre, School of Health Sciences, University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Antony P Martin
- Health Economics Centre, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Iris Hoxha
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Medicine Tirana, Tirana, Albania
| | - Vafa Abilova
- Analytical Expertise Center, Ministry of Health, Baku, Azerbaijan Republic
| | | | - Pinkie Mpinda-Joseph
- Department of Infection Prevention and Control, Nyangabgwe Hospital, Francistown, Botswana
| | | | - Livia Lovato Pires de Lemos
- SUS Collaborating Centre for Technology Assessment and Excellence in Health, sala, Faculdade de Farmácia, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Av. Presidente Antônio Carlos, Campus Pampulha, Minas Gerais, CEP, Brazil
- Programa de Pós-Graduação em Saúde Pública, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Federal de Minas Gerais, Minas Gerais, CEP, Brazil
| | - Israel Sefah
- Department of Pharmacy, Keta Municipal Hospital, Ghana Health Service, Keta, Ghana
| | - Amanj Kurdi
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, United Kingdom
- Department of Pharmacology, College of Pharmacy, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Iraq
| | - Sylvia Opanga
- Department of Pharmacology and Pharmacognosy, School of Pharmacy, University of Nairobi, Nairobi, Kenya
| | | | - Zikria Saleem
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
- Hamdard Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Hamdard University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | | | - Dan Kibuule
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Policy, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Namibia, Windhoek, Namibia
| | - Joseph Fadare
- Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, Ekiti State University, Ado-Ekiti, Nigeria
| | - Tomasz Bochenek
- Department of Drug Management, Faculty of Health Sciences, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
| | - Celia Rothe
- Department of Drug Management, Faculty of Health Sciences, Jagiellonian University Medical College, Krakow, Poland
| | - Jurij Furst
- Health Insurance Institute, Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Vanda Markovic-Pekovic
- Department of Social Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Banja Luka, Banja Luka, Republic of Srpska, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Ljubica Bojanić
- Public Health Institute, Banja Luka, Republic of Srpska, Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, University of Banja Luka, Banja Luka, Republic of Srpska, Bosnia and Herzegovina
| | - Natalie Schellack
- School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
| | - Johanna C Meyer
- School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa
| | | | - Thuy Nguyen Thi Phuong
- Department of Pharmaceutical Administration and PharmacoEconomics, Hanoi University of Pharmacy, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Binh Nguyen Thanh
- Department of Pharmaceutical Administration and PharmacoEconomics, Hanoi University of Pharmacy, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Saira Jan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Rutgers State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
- Department of Pharmacy Strategy and Clinical Integration, Horizon Blue Cross Blue Shield of New Jersey, Newark, NJ, USA
| | - Aubrey Kalungia
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | | | - Massimo Sartelli
- Department of Surgery, University of Macerata, Macerata Hospital, Macerata, MC, Italy
| | - Ruaraidh Hill
- Liverpool Reviews and Implementation Group, Liverpool University, Liverpool, UK
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Saliba-Gustafsson EA, Dunberger Hampton A, Zarb P, Orsini N, Borg MA, Stålsby Lundborg C. Factors associated with antibiotic prescribing in patients with acute respiratory tract complaints in Malta: a 1-year repeated cross-sectional surveillance study. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e032704. [PMID: 31857311 PMCID: PMC6937012 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-032704] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To identify factors that influence general practitioners' (GPs') oral antibiotic prescribing for acute respiratory tract complaints (aRTCs) in Malta. DESIGN Repeated, cross-sectional surveillance. SETTING Maltese general practice; both public health centres and private GP clinics. PARTICIPANTS 30 GPs registered on the Malta Medical Council's Specialist Register and 3 GP trainees registered data of 4831 patients of all ages suffering from any aRTC. Data were collected monthly between May 2015 and April 2016 during predetermined 1-week periods. OUTCOME MEASURES The outcome of interest was antibiotic prescription (yes/no), defined as an oral antibiotic prescription issued for an aRTC during an in-person consultation, irrespective of the number of antibiotics given. The association between GP, practice and consultation-level factors, patient sociodemographic factors and patient health status factors, and antibiotic prescription was investigated. RESULTS The antibiotic prescription rate was 45.0%. Independent factors positively associated with antibiotic prescribing included female GP sex (OR 2.3, 95% CI 1.22 to 4.26), GP age with GPs ≥60 being the most likely (OR 34.7, 95% CI 14.14 to 84.98), patient age with patients ≥65 being the most likely (OR 2.3, 95% CI 1.71 to 3.18), number of signs and/or symptoms with patients having ≥4 being the most likely (OR 9.6, 95% CI 5.78 to 15.99), fever (OR 2.6, 95% CI 2.08 to 3.26), productive cough (OR 1.3, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.61), otalgia (OR 1.3, 95% CI 1.01 to 1.76), tender cervical nodes (OR 2.2, 95% CI 1.57 to 3.05), regular clients (OR 1.3, 95% CI 1.05 to 1.66), antibiotic requests (OR 4.8, 95% CI 2.52 to 8.99) and smoking (OR 1.4, 95% CI 1.13 to 1.71). Conversely, patients with non-productive cough (OR 0.3, 95% CI 0.26 to 0.41), sore throat (OR 0.6, 95% CI 0.53 to 0.78), rhinorrhoea (OR 0.3, 95% CI 0.23 to 0.36) or dyspnoea (OR 0.6, 95% CI 0.41 to 0.83) were less likely to receive an antibiotic prescription. CONCLUSION Antibiotic prescribing for aRTCs was high and influenced by a number of factors. Potentially inappropriate prescribing in primary care can be addressed through multifaceted interventions addressing modifiable factors associated with prescription. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER NCT03218930.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika A Saliba-Gustafsson
- Department of Global Public Health, Health Systems and Policy: Improving Use of Medicines, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Alexandra Dunberger Hampton
- Department of Global Public Health, Health Systems and Policy: Improving Use of Medicines, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Peter Zarb
- Department of Infection Prevention and Control, Mater Dei Hospital, Msida, Malta
| | - Nicola Orsini
- Department of Global Public Health, Social Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Michael A Borg
- Department of Infection Prevention and Control, Mater Dei Hospital, Msida, Malta
- Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Malta, Msida, Malta
| | - Cecilia Stålsby Lundborg
- Department of Global Public Health, Health Systems and Policy: Improving Use of Medicines, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
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Ruiz R, Moragas A, Trapero-Bertran M, Sisó A, Berenguera A, Oliva G, Borràs-Santos A, García-Sangenís A, Puig-Junoy J, Cots JM, Morros R, Mora T, Lanau-Roig A, Monfà R, Troncoso A, Abellana RM, Gálvez P, Medina-Perucha L, Bjerrum L, Amo I, Barragán N, Llor C. Effectiveness and cost-effectiveness of Improving clinicians' diagnostic and communication Skills on Antibiotic prescribing Appropriateness in patients with acute Cough in primary care in CATalonia (the ISAAC-CAT study): study protocol for a cluster randomised controlled trial. Trials 2019; 20:740. [PMID: 31847912 PMCID: PMC6918568 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-019-3727-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2019] [Accepted: 09/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Despite their marginal benefit, about 60% of acute lower respiratory tract infections (ALRTIs) are currently treated with antibiotics in Catalonia. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of a continuous disease-focused intervention (C-reactive protein [CRP]) and an illness-focused intervention (enhancement of communication skills to optimise doctor-patient consultations) on antibiotic prescribing in patients with ALRTIs in Catalan primary care centres. Methods/design A cluster randomised, factorial, controlled trial aimed at including 20 primary care centres (N = 2940 patients) with patients older than 18 years of age presenting for a first consultation with an ALRTI will be included in the study. Primary care centres will be identified on the basis of socioeconomic data and antibiotic consumption. Centres will be randomly assigned according to hierarchical clustering to any of four trial arms: usual care, CRP testing, enhanced communication skills backed up with patient leaflets, or combined interventions. A cost-effectiveness and cost-utility analysis will be performed from the societal and national healthcare system perspectives, and the time horizon of the analysis will be 1 year. Two qualitative studies (pre- and post-clinical trial) aimed to identify the expectations and concerns of patients with ALRTIs and the barriers and facilitators of each intervention arm will be run. Family doctors and nurses assigned to the interventions will participate in a 2-h training workshop before the inception of the trial and will receive a monthly intervention-tailored training module during the year of the trial period. Primary outcomes will be antibiotic use within the first 6 weeks, duration of moderate to severe cough, and the quality-adjusted life-years. Secondary outcomes will be duration of illness and severity of cough measured using a symptom diary, healthcare re-consultations, hospital admissions, and complications. Healthcare costs will be considered and expressed in 2021 euros (year foreseen to finalise the study) of the current year of the analysis. Univariate and multivariate sensitivity analyses will be carried out. Discussion The ISAAC-CAT project will contribute to evaluate the effectiveness and efficiency of different strategies for more appropriate antibiotic prescribing that are currently out of the scope of the actual clinical guidelines. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03931577.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafa Ruiz
- Institut Català de la Salut, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana Moragas
- Fundació Institut Universitari per a la recerca a l'Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina (IDIAPJGol), Barcelona, Spain.,Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Jaume I Health Centre, Institut Català de la Salut, Tarragona, Spain
| | - Marta Trapero-Bertran
- Research Institute for Evaluation and Public Policies (IRAPP), Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | - Anna Berenguera
- Fundació Institut Universitari per a la recerca a l'Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina (IDIAPJGol), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Glòria Oliva
- Ministry of Health, Government of Catalonia, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Alícia Borràs-Santos
- Institut Universitari de Pacients (Patients' University Institut), Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ana García-Sangenís
- Fundació Institut Universitari per a la recerca a l'Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina (IDIAPJGol), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Jaume Puig-Junoy
- Pompeu Fabra University (UPF)-Barcelona School of Management, Barcelona, Spain of Economics and Business, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Josep M Cots
- Universitat de Barcelona, La Marina Health Centre, Institut Català de la Salut, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rosa Morros
- Fundació Institut Universitari per a la recerca a l'Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina (IDIAPJGol), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Toni Mora
- Research Institute for Evaluation and Public Policies (IRAPP), Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Lanau-Roig
- La Marina Health Centre, Institut Català de la Salut, Associació d'Infermeria Familiar i Comunitària de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ramon Monfà
- Fundació Institut Universitari per a la recerca a l'Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina (IDIAPJGol), UICEC de IDIAP Jordi Gol - Plataforma SCReN, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Amelia Troncoso
- Àrea de Suport al Medicament i Servei de Farmàcia Barcelona, Institut Català de la Salut, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Rosa M Abellana
- Biostatistics, Department of Basic Clinical Practice, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Pau Gálvez
- Institut Universitari de Pacients (Patients' University Institut), Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Laura Medina-Perucha
- Fundació Institut Universitari per a la recerca a l'Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina (IDIAPJGol), Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra, Cerdanyola del Vallès, Spain
| | - Lars Bjerrum
- Centre for General Practice, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Isabel Amo
- Institut Universitari de Pacients (Patients' University Institut), Universitat Internacional de Catalunya, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Nieves Barragán
- Catalan Society of Family Medicine, Group on Communication, Health Centre Vallcarca, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Carl Llor
- Fundació Institut Universitari per a la recerca a l'Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina (IDIAPJGol), Manso Health Centre, Institut Català de la Salut, Barcelona, Spain.
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Kianmehr H, Sabounchi NS, Seyedzadeh Sabounchi S, Cosler LE. Patient expectation trends on receiving antibiotic prescriptions for respiratory tract infections: A systematic review and meta-regression analysis. Int J Clin Pract 2019; 73:e13360. [PMID: 31066959 DOI: 10.1111/ijcp.13360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2018] [Revised: 04/17/2019] [Accepted: 05/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Despite a variety of programs developed to control inappropriate antibiotic prescribing for viral infections, antibiotics are still prescribed excessively for Respiratory Tract Infections (RTI). The patient's expectation to receive an antibiotic often influences the clinician's decision and can lead to inappropriate antibiotic prescriptions. Our objective was to investigate the changes in patient expectations over time when presenting with symptoms of a respiratory infection. METHODS We performed a systematic review of patient's expectation to receive antibiotics for RTIs. Two reviewers independently evaluated the collected studies based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Our search initially identified 12 070 studies, of which 321 studies were eligible for full text review and 37 articles were selected for final evaluation. Meta-regression analysis was used to evaluate the association between patient expectations and different years. Heterogeneity was evaluated using the Q statistic. RESULTS Patient expectations (effect size) were pooled using a random effects model. The effect-equality test showed heterogeneity among studies (Q = 3304.23, df = 40, P < 0.0001, k = 40, τ2 = 0.63). Meta-regression results revealed that there is a significant linear negative relationship (B = -1.8374, P < 0.05) between patient expectation and year of data collection, at the global level. A similar finding is observed for the subset of studies conducted outside United States (U.S.) (B = -1.2411, P < 0.1). However, there is no discernible trend for patient expectation in the U.S. or among children and adult subgroups. Also, no significant differences are observed between the patient expectations when considering different age groups. CONCLUSION The trend of patient expectation for receiving antibiotics for RTIs is declining over time on a global level and also outside the U.S.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hamed Kianmehr
- Thomas J. Watson School of Engineering and Applied Science, Binghamton University, Binghamton, New York
| | - Nasim S Sabounchi
- Thomas J. Watson School of Engineering and Applied Science, Binghamton University, Binghamton, New York
| | | | - Leon E Cosler
- Department of Health Outcomes and Administrative Sciences, School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Binghamton University, Binghamton, New York
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Dekker ARJ, Verheij TJM, Broekhuizen BDL, Butler CC, Cals JWL, Francis NA, Little P, Sanders EAM, Yardley L, Zuithoff NPA, van der Velden AW. Effectiveness of general practitioner online training and an information booklet for parents on antibiotic prescribing for children with respiratory tract infection in primary care: a cluster randomized controlled trial. J Antimicrob Chemother 2019; 73:1416-1422. [PMID: 29438547 DOI: 10.1093/jac/dkx542] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2017] [Accepted: 12/25/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objectives Antibiotics are too often prescribed in childhood respiratory tract infection (RTI), despite limited effectiveness, potential side effects and bacterial resistance. We aimed to reduce antibiotic prescribing for children with RTI by online training for general practitioners (GPs) and information for parents. Methods A pragmatic cluster randomized controlled trial in primary care. The intervention consisted of online training for GPs and an information booklet for parents. The primary outcome was the antibiotic prescription rate for children presenting with RTI symptoms, as registered by GPs. Secondary outcomes were number of reconsultations within the same disease episode, consultations for new episodes, hospital referrals and pharmacy-dispensed antibiotic courses for children. This trial was registered at the Dutch Trial Register (NTR), registration number: NTR4240. Results After randomization, GPs from a total of 32 general practices registered 1009 consultations. An antibiotic was prescribed in 21% of consultations in the intervention group, compared with 33% in the usual care group, controlled for baseline prescribing (rate ratio 0.65, 95% CI 0.46-0.91). The probability of reconsulting during the same RTI episode did not differ significantly between the intervention and control groups, and nor did the numbers of consultations for new episodes and hospital referrals. In the intervention group antibiotic dispensing was 32 courses per 1000 children/year lower than the control group, adjusted for baseline prescribing (rate ratio 0.78, 95% CI 0.66-0.92). The numbers and proportion of second-choice antibiotics did not differ significantly. Conclusions Concise, feasible, online GP training, with an information booklet for parents, showed a relevant reduction in antibiotic prescribing for children with RTI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne R J Dekker
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Theo J M Verheij
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Berna D L Broekhuizen
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Christopher C Butler
- Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Jochen W L Cals
- Department of Family Medicine, CAPHRI School for Public Health and Primary Care, Maastricht University, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Nick A Francis
- Department of Primary Care and Public Health, School of Medicine, Cardiff University, Cardiff, UK
| | - Paul Little
- Primary Care Medical Group, University of Southampton Medical School, Southampton, UK
| | - Elisabeth A M Sanders
- Department of Paediatric Immunology, Wilhelmina Children's Hospital, University Medical Center, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Lucy Yardley
- Academic Unit of Psychology, Faculty of Social and Human Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Nicolaas P A Zuithoff
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Alike W van der Velden
- Julius Center for Health Sciences and Primary Care, University Medical Center Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
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The use of a poster to reduce expectations to receive antibiotics for a common cold. Eur J Clin Microbiol Infect Dis 2019; 38:1463-1469. [PMID: 31102079 DOI: 10.1007/s10096-019-03572-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2019] [Accepted: 04/28/2019] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Many doctors prescribe antibiotics for a cold, to meet patient's expectations. As a result, patient's education about antibiotics and antibiotic resistance forms a major component of the WHO's Global Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance. However, it is not known whether simple educational material can change a person's attitudes about antibiotic therapy. We designed three posters about antibiotic treatment for "cold and flu". Hospital inpatients answered a baseline survey and then were asked to look at one of three randomly selected posters. The posters highlighted the futility of antibiotic treatment for colds (futility), the risk of adverse drug reactions from antibiotics (harm), and the issue of antimicrobial resistance (resistance). Participants then completed a follow-up survey. Participants' expectations to receive antibiotics for a "bad cold" reduced significantly after viewing a poster (82/299, 27% expected antibiotics in the baseline survey compared with 13% in the follow-up survey, P < 0.01). Continuing expectation to receive antibiotics after viewing one of the posters was associated with expectation to receive antibiotics in the baseline survey and the strong belief that colds were caused by bacteria. Participants who viewed the resistance poster were more likely to continue to expect antibiotics than participants who viewed the futility poster (OR 2.46, 95%CI 1.16-5.20, P = 0.02). Following discussion of the study, viewing a poster reduced participants' expectations to receive antibiotics for a hypothetical cold. Changing patients' expectations to receive antibiotics using simple educational material about antibiotic futility could lead to significant reductions in antibiotic prescription for viral upper respiratory tract infections.
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Bagnulo A, Muñoz Sastre MT, Kpanake L, Sorum PC, Mullet E. Why patients want to take or refuse to take antibiotics: an inventory of motives. BMC Public Health 2019; 19:441. [PMID: 31029110 PMCID: PMC6487028 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-019-6834-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/13/2018] [Accepted: 04/15/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inappropriate use of antibiotics is a worldwide issue. In order to help public health institutions and each particular physician to change patterns of consumption among patients, it is important to understand better the reasons why people accept to take or refuse to take the antibiotic drugs. This study explored the motives people give for taking or refusing to take antibiotics. METHODS Four hundred eighteen adults filled out a 60-item questionnaire that consisted of assertions referring to reasons for which the person had taken antibiotics in the past and a 70-item questionnaire that listed reasons for which the person had sometimes refused to take antibiotics. RESULTS A six-factor structure of motives to take antibiotics was found: Appropriate Prescription, Protective Device, Enjoyment (antibiotics as a quick fix allowing someone to go out), Others' Pressure, Work Imperative, and Personal Autonomy. A four-factor structure of motives not to take antibiotics was found: Secondary Gain (through prolonged illness), Bacterial Resistance, Self-defense (the body is able to defend itself) and Lack of trust. Scores on these factors were related to participants' demographics and previous experience with antibiotics. CONCLUSION Although people are generally willing to follow their physician's prescription of antibiotics, a notable proportion of them report adopting behaviors that are beneficial to micro-organisms and, as a result, potentially detrimental to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adriana Bagnulo
- Jean-Jaurès University, CERPPS, Maison de la recherche, 5 allées Antonio Machado, 31058, Toulouse cedex 9, France
| | - Maria-Teresa Muñoz Sastre
- Jean-Jaurès University, CERPPS, Maison de la recherche, 5 allées Antonio Machado, 31058, Toulouse cedex 9, France
| | - Lonzozou Kpanake
- University of Québec (TELUQ), 5800, rue Saint-Denis, Bureau 1105, Montréal, Québec, H2S 3L5, Canada.
| | - Paul Clay Sorum
- Albany Medical College, Albany, Latham Med-Ped, 724 Watervliet-Shaker Road, Latham, NY, 12110, USA
| | - Etienne Mullet
- Institute of Advanced Studies (EPHE), 17 bis, rue Quefes, Plaisance du Touch, 31830, Paris, France
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Roope LSJ, Smith RD, Pouwels KB, Buchanan J, Abel L, Eibich P, Butler CC, Tan PS, Walker AS, Robotham JV, Wordsworth S. The challenge of antimicrobial resistance: What economics can contribute. Science 2019; 364:364/6435/eaau4679. [DOI: 10.1126/science.aau4679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 197] [Impact Index Per Article: 39.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
As antibiotic consumption grows, bacteria are becoming increasingly resistant to treatment. Antibiotic resistance undermines much of modern health care, which relies on access to effective antibiotics to prevent and treat infections associated with routine medical procedures. The resulting challenges have much in common with those posed by climate change, which economists have responded to with research that has informed and shaped public policy. Drawing on economic concepts such as externalities and the principal–agent relationship, we suggest how economics can help to solve the challenges arising from increasing resistance to antibiotics. We discuss solutions to the key economic issues, from incentivizing the development of effective new antibiotics to improving antibiotic stewardship through financial mechanisms and regulation.
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Biezen R, Grando D, Mazza D, Brijnath B. Dissonant views - GPs' and parents' perspectives on antibiotic prescribing for young children with respiratory tract infections. BMC FAMILY PRACTICE 2019; 20:46. [PMID: 30922238 PMCID: PMC6437946 DOI: 10.1186/s12875-019-0936-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2018] [Accepted: 03/22/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antibiotics are not recommended for treating uncomplicated respiratory tract infections (RTIs), despite this, antibiotic prescribing for this is widespread. General practitioners (GPs) report parental pressure and fear of losing patients if they do not prescribe antibiotics, however, parental views on antibiotics for RTIs are unclear. Therefore, this study examined GPs' and parents' perceptions regarding antibiotic prescribing for RTIs in young children. METHODS We conducted semi-structured interviews with 20 GPs, and a survey and focus groups with 50 parents and carers of children under the age of five between June 2014 and July 2015 in Melbourne, Australia. Qualitative data were thematically analysed using NVivo and quantitative data were analysed using SPSS. RESULTS GPs believed that parents expect antibiotics for RTIs and were more likely to prescribe them if parents were insistent. They believed parents would go elsewhere if they did not prescribe antibiotics. GPs suggested that there would be less conflict if parents were better educated on appropriate antibiotics use. In contrast, parents demonstrated good knowledge of RTIs and appropriate antibiotic use. Their main expectation from GPs was to obtain a diagnosis, discuss management, and receive reassurance that the illness was not serious. Parental satisfaction with GPs was not dependent on receiving antibiotics (r = 0.658, p < 0.001), and they would not seek another GP if antibiotics were not prescribed (r = 0.655, p < 0.001). CONCLUSION GPs and parents have dissonant views on antibiotic prescribing for RTI in young children. GPs perceived parents wanting a diagnosis and reassurance that their child is not severely ill as pressure to prescribe antibiotic. To overcome these barriers, targeted training for both GPs and parents to improve communication and reassurance that satisfaction is not related to receiving antibiotics may reduce unnecessary antibiotic prescribing for RTI in young children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ruby Biezen
- Department of General Practice, Monash University, Building 1, 270 Ferntree Gully Road, Notting Hill, VIC, 3168, Australia.
| | - Danilla Grando
- School of Science, RMIT University, Building 223, Level 1, Bundoora Campus, Plenty Road, Bundoora, VIC, 3083, Australia
| | - Danielle Mazza
- Department of General Practice, Monash University, Building 1, 270 Ferntree Gully Road, Notting Hill, VIC, 3168, Australia
| | - Bianca Brijnath
- National Ageing Research Institute LTD, 34-54 Poplar Road, Parkville, VIC, 3052, Australia
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Thida T, Liabsuetrakul T, McNeil E. Disparity in utilization and expectation of community-based maternal health care services among women in Myanmar: a cross-sectional study. J Public Health (Oxf) 2019; 41:183-191. [PMID: 29385492 DOI: 10.1093/pubmed/fdy002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2017] [Revised: 12/31/2017] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Aim of this study is to assess women's utilization and expectation of community-based antenatal and delivery care services in Myanmar and determine associated factors for disparity of services received with services women expected to receive. METHODS A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 6-month postpartum women in three townships of Myanmar during May-September 2016. Associated factors for the services with disparity were identified using multinomial logistic regression models. RESULTS Of 1743 women, the percentages of antenatal care (ANC) attended by a skilled provider, at least four ANC visits, and early ANC were 89, 60 and 36%, respectively. The percentage of non-facility delivery was 65%. Many ANC services received and services expected to receive had lower than 80% coverage. Services with significant disparity included blood hemoglobin and urinary protein testing, and iron supplementation. Low access to ANC, women's socio-economic status, pregnancy and delivery complications, and out-of-pocket cost were associated with disparity of these services. CONCLUSION Utilization and expectation of community-based ANC services and facility delivery is low in Myanmar. Disparities of the services received with the services women expected to receive were common in ANC. Improving women's expectations on essential services during pregnancy is needed as well as strengthening community participation.
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Affiliation(s)
- T Thida
- Department of Medical Research (Pyin Oo Lwin Brach), Ministry of Health and Sports, Pyin Oo Lwin Township, Mandalay Region, Myanmar.,Epidemiology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, Songkhla, Thailand
| | - T Liabsuetrakul
- Epidemiology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, Songkhla, Thailand
| | - E McNeil
- Epidemiology Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Hat Yai, Songkhla, Thailand
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Coenen S, Bartholomeeusen S, Remmen R, Van Royen P, Morreel S, Philips H. Comment on: The 'morning dip' in antimicrobial appropriateness: circumstances determining appropriateness of antimicrobial prescribing. J Antimicrob Chemother 2019; 74:277-278. [PMID: 30169647 DOI: 10.1093/jac/dky355] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Coenen
- Centre for General Practice, Department of Primary and Interdisciplinary Care (ELIZA), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.,Department of Epidemiology and Social Medicine (ESOC), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium.,Laboratory of Medical Microbiology, Vaccine & Infectious Disease Institute (VAXINFECTIO), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Stephaan Bartholomeeusen
- Centre for General Practice, Department of Primary and Interdisciplinary Care (ELIZA), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Roy Remmen
- Centre for General Practice, Department of Primary and Interdisciplinary Care (ELIZA), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Paul Van Royen
- Centre for General Practice, Department of Primary and Interdisciplinary Care (ELIZA), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Stefan Morreel
- Centre for General Practice, Department of Primary and Interdisciplinary Care (ELIZA), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
| | - Hilde Philips
- Centre for General Practice, Department of Primary and Interdisciplinary Care (ELIZA), University of Antwerp, Antwerp, Belgium
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