COMPLETED: Reducing unnecessary antibiotic prescribing in primary care

The problem:
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major public health risk to the UK. Over prescribing, and misuse, of antibiotics has contributed towards this increasing resistance. 60% of all antibiotics prescribed by GPs are for respiratory tract infections RTIs but antibiotics have limited effect on RTIs. UK health policy is to try to reduce the number of prescriptions issued by GPs, especially for (RTIs). Government have pledged to ½ unnecessary antibiotic use by 2020.

The solution:
This study promotes using a finger-prick test, called CRP, for patients to help them and their GP decide if antibiotics will be effective for their chest infection. The C-reactive Protein or CRP test gives GPs and patients a better indication of what might be causing the chest infection and helps rule out the need for antibiotics.

Expected outcome:
• A reduction in antibiotic use by CCGs and GP surgeries.
• Demonstration of an effective funding model to cover the costs of CRP testing.
• Provide information to inform NHS England, commissioners and government policy.

More information: 

Resources: <Downloads>

Survey participant Patient information

GP Audit form

Local Enhanced NHS Services Guide

Patient information leaflet