Many health care providers report feeling pressured by worried parents or patients to prescribe antibiotics. Rather than take the time to explain why an antibiotic isn't needed, it may be easier to write a prescription. They also may not be sure whether an infection is caused by a bacterium or virus. In some cases, laboratory tests, such as for strep throat, can be helpful, but again require extra time and sometimes a second visit for the patient.
MARR offers free printable and shareable resources that will help the healthcare provider easily explain to a patient why an antibiotic may not be necessary. Many patients do not know what antibiotic resistance is and how it could affect them. These materials may help create a dialog between the patient and provider about the differences between a virus and bacterial infection, when an antibiotic is appropriate, and the dangers of antibiotic resistance, including why taking an antibiotic for a viral infection can cause more harm than good.
View / Download Antibiotics: What you should know brochure PDF
Public health and healthcare professionals can find more information about antibiotic stewardship on the Michigan.gov/AMSinfo website.
Our healthcare provider commitment poster provides you with the information necessary to have a conversation with your patient about appropriate antibiotic use. Contact us if you would like help printing, or attaching your logo to the poster.
Improving antibiotic prescribing in all health care settings is critical to combating antibiotic-resistant bacteria. The Core Elements of Outpatient Antibiotic Stewardship provides a framework for antibiotic stewardship for outpatient clinicians and facilities that routinely provide antibiotic treatment.
View the Core Elements on the CDC Website
