Evaluating the Implementation of a Pilot Quality Improvement Program to Support Appropriate Antimicrobial Prescribing...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Infectious Diseases
• General Practice

Background:

• Inappropriate antimicrobial prescribing is a major driver of antimicrobial resistance.
• Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programs aim to optimize antibiotic use.
• General practice settings require tailored AMS interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the implementation of the Guidance GP program, an AMS initiative.
• To assess the acceptability and feasibility of quality improvement activities in Australian general practice.
• To identify facilitators and barriers to AMS program implementation in primary care.

Main Methods:

• A quality improvement program (Guidance GP) was implemented in three Australian general practices.
• The program included audit and feedback, clinical decision support, and education.
• Qualitative data were collected through focus groups and interviews with general practitioners (GPs) and practice managers.

Main Results:

• Quality improvement activities were acceptable to GPs when aligned with their decision-making processes and workflows.
• Clinically meaningful audit and feedback were crucial for GP engagement.
• Barriers included coordination time and implementation costs; facilitators included a whole-of-practice approach and a practice champion.

Conclusions:

• The Guidance GP program's quality improvement activities are acceptable and feasible in Australian general practice.
• Successful AMS program implementation hinges on workflow integration, clear clinical value, and strong practice support.
• Findings will inform broader AMS strategies for Australian general practice to enhance participation and engagement.