Antibiotic Resistance, Still a Global Challenge.

Abstract

The use of antibiotics represents a major health problem worldwide because they are often administered without medical prescription. This has led to different situations starting from a large use in inappropriate cases without medical recommendation, to a major issue that represents antimicrobial resistance. Our aim was to identify the opinion of healthcare workers (physicians and pharmacists) about the most effective solution at reducing antimicrobial resistance, helping the policy makers to take a decision. The present study was conducted from March 15th, 2021 to April 15th, 2021, using a virtual questionnaire. A total of 397 respondents provided a complete response to our questionnaire: 313 physicians and 84 pharmacists. Our results provided valuable insights that can be used to inform the development of a national health policy, resulting in population health gains. Our work provided an indication of physicians’ preferences toward solutions as “A tax on antibiotic consumption, which could be used to fund innovation strategies.” (41.53%) and “An educational program for patients that highlights the causes and effects of antimicrobial resistance.” (42.49%). The pharmacists preferred the solutions as “An educational program for patients that highlights the causes and effects of antimicrobial resistance.” (52.38%) and “Elimination of antibiotics from the list of the emergency pharmaceutical services.” (42.86%). A small number of physicians (2.24%) and pharmacists (3.57%) recommended as the most effective solution at reducing antimicrobial resistance “Restrain antibiotic use in the food industry.”