Publication
Title
Improving antibiotic prescribing quality in out-of-hours primary care : a mixed-methods study using participatory action research
Author
Abstract
Background During out-of-hours (OOH) primary care, GPs overprescribe antibiotics for respiratory tract infections (RTIs). Many interventions have been shown to improve antibiotic prescribing quality, but their implementation in practice remains difficult. Participatory action research (PAR) aims to explore, implement and evaluate change in practice with an active involvement of local stakeholders, while generating knowledge through experience. Objectives To evaluate whether PAR improves antibiotic prescribing quality for RTIs during OOH primary care and simultaneously identify the pivotal lessons learned. Methods A mixed-methods study with a PAR approach in three OOH GP cooperatives (GPCs). Each GPC co-created a multifaceted intervention focusing on improving antibiotic use for RTIs through plan-do-study-act cycles. We quantified antibiotic prescribing quality indicators and formulated the lessons learned from a qualitative process analysis. Results Interventions were chosen with the GPs and adapted to be context-relevant. The willingness to work on quality and engagement of local stakeholders led to ownership of the project, but was time-consuming. In one GPC, antibiotic prescribing significantly decreased for tonsillitis, bronchitis, otitis media and acute upper RTI. In all three GPCs, use of guideline-recommended antibiotics for otitis media significantly increased. Conclusions Implementing multifaceted interventions through PAR can lower total and increase guideline-recommended antibiotic prescribing for RTIs in OOH primary care. Co-creating interventions with GPs to suit local needs is feasible, but reaching all GPs targeted is challenging.
Language
English
Source (journal)
JAC antimicrobial resistance
Publication
2023
DOI
10.1093/JACAMR/DLAD131
Volume/pages
5 :6 (2023) , p. 1-13
Article Reference
dlad131
ISI
001122494800003
Pubmed ID
38089462
Medium
E-only publicatie
Full text (Publisher's DOI)
Full text (open access)
UAntwerpen
Faculty/Department
Research group
Project info
iCAREdata, Improving Care and Research Electronic Data Trust Antwerp.
The effect of implementing C-reactive protein point-of-care testing for respiratory tract infections on antibiotic prescribing: a mixed methods study in out-of-hours primary care.
Publication type
Subject
Affiliation
Publications with a UAntwerp address
External links
Web of Science
Record
Identifier
Creation 13.12.2023
Last edited 25.04.2024
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