A Pilot Study Evaluating the Impact of an Algorithm-Driven Protocol on Guideline-Concordant Antibiotic Prescribing in a Rural Primary Care Setting.

ABSTRACT: Approximately 2.8 million cases of bacterial antimicrobial resistance (AMR) infections result in over 35,000 deaths annually in the U.S. AMR is driven largely by inappropriate prescribing of antibiotics, especially in clinics serving rural communities or underserved populations. Antibiotic Stewardship Programs (ASPs) improve prescribing practices, but many rural clinics lack fully functional ASPs. This pilot study evaluated the impact of an algorithm-driven protocol on antibiotic prescribing in a rural primary care setting. We conducted a pre-post quasi-experimental study at a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC), focusing on upper respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, and sexually transmitted infections. Eligible patients were enrolled in the study during their primary car

SUBMITTER: Nkemdirim Okere A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11859786 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature