Enablers and barriers to antimicrobial stewardship for upper respiratory tract infections in Kosovo's primary care: a qualitative study protocol.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs) are one of the most common reasons for primary care visits, yet often do not require treatment with antibiotics. Antibiotic use is associated with side effects and the development of antibiotic resistance. Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programmes are essential to mitigate this issue. Many countries, including Kosovo, an upper-middle-income country, have not yet implemented AMS programmes. The implementation of AMS in Kosovo is shaped by economic, social, technological and legal factors. However, it is the structural weaknesses within the health system that pose the most significant barriers. This study will examine the barriers and enablers for AMS programmes for URTIs in the primary care setting.

Methods and analysis

SUBMITTER: Selmani E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12406928 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature