Delayed prescribing stands out as the most effective clinical strategy in reducing antibiotic overuse, achieving a 64 per cent reduction while maintaining patient safety and supporting clear communication within GP consultations.
Audit and feedback initiatives, such as peer-comparison letters to high prescribers, delivered an additional 8-9 per cent reduction in antibiotic use but remain underutilised, with only 10 per cent of GPs currently participating.
These findings underscore the urgent need for practical, sustained AMS models that work in real-world settings.
To address this challenge head-on, EASSI-PC (Evidence-based Antimicrobial Stewardship: Sustainable Implementation in Primary Care) is a national GP-led initiative uniting clinicians, researchers, and healthcare partners across Queensland, Victoria, New South Wales, and South Australia.
EASSI-PC delivers real-world AMS strategies including audit and feedback, delayed prescribing, decision aids, and EMR-integrated tools, providing GPs with practical, tailored stewardship resources for daily use.
Disclaimer: This article was provided by University of Melbourne. While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate, North Western Melbourne Primary Health Network does not warrant or represent the accuracy, currency and completeness of any information or material included within.
