Nationwide implementation of online communication skills training to reduce overprescribing of antibiotics: a stepped-wedge cluster randomized trial in general practice.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

Primary care is responsible for a large proportion of unnecessary antibiotic use, which is one of the main drivers of antibiotic resistance. Randomized trials have found that online communication skills training for GPs reduces antibiotic prescribing for respiratory infections. This study assesses the real-world effect of implementing online communication skills training in general practice.

Methods

In a closed cohort stepped-wedge cluster randomized trial all Belgian GPs were invited to participate in online communication skills training courses (TRACE and INTRO) and provided with linked patient information booklets. The primary outcome was the antibiotic prescribing rate per 1000 patient contacts. Intention-to-treat and per protocol analyses were performed. Tria

SUBMITTER: D'Hulster L 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9240414 | biostudies-literature | 2022 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature