Antibiotic resistance causes 2 million illnesses and 23,000 deaths each year in the U.S, leading to a public health crisis.

The Problem:

Healthcare providers agree that overuse and misuse of antibiotics is a public health crisis. Research has shown that unnecessary antibiotic prescribing for respiratory illnesses rises as the provider’s day progresses, leading to “decision fatigue.” As a result, many stressed providers are unsure of how they can make a difference.

The Solution:

The Telligen Quality Innovation Network (QIN) created a step-by-step antibiotic stewardship program that helps prevent providers and staff from feeling overwhelmed. The no-cost program, offered to outpatient providers in Iowa, Illinois, and Colorado; includes tools, resources, and strategies for developing their own programs in accordance with the CDC’s Core Elements of Outpatient Antibiotic Stewardship.

The Strategy:

  • Create a playbook of materials encompassing posters, patient educational posters, brochures, and a treatment recommendation resource
  • Include strategies participants can work into their practices by the end of 2018
  • Offer training that incorporates evidence-based systems like TeamSTEPPS® strategies for improving communication and collaboration among healthcare teams

The Results:

  • More than 50 percent of outpatient antibiotic stewardship champions downloaded the playbook within 2 months of release
  • Received a participant “usefulness” rating of 4, on a scale of 1 to 5
  • Helped facilities comply with federal quality improvement program requirements — such as the Merit-Based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) and the Improving Communications and Readmissions (iCARE) program