Strengthening Antimicrobial Stewardship in Korea: Strategies to Address Workforce Gaps and Expand ASP Nationwide

Given the global threat of antimicrobial-resistant organisms, an effective antimicrobial stewardship program (ASP) is essential. Infectious disease (ID) physicians and ID-trained pharmacists are prioritized as critical core members of ASP in hospital settings, but securing these ID-trained professionals in all settings is challenging. Alternative champions and personnel for implementation may be needed. This narrative review highlights the efficacy of ASP when non-ID-trained physicians and pharmacists are engaged in ASP, showcasing various studies demonstrating significant improvements in antimicrobial utilization, cost, and patient outcomes. Additionally, it discusses the impact of network-based models, such as the Duke Antimicrobial Stewardship Outreach Network, which provides structured support and resources to lower-resourced hospitals to ensure the successful implementation of ASP. Ultimately, this narrative review provides insights into how to structure accountability and pharmacy/stewardship expertise in establishing and expanding ASP nationwide in Korea, where ASP is still in its early stages. In addressing this issue, government initiatives to actively support this effort are essential, and striving to develop evidence-based policies is necessary.