One Health antimicrobial resistance: stewardship in Australia

Abstract

Antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) is promoted as a core set of actions that aim to mitigate the emergence of antimicrobial resistance, but to also ensure safety and quality use of antimicrobials. By improving the appropriate use of antimicrobials we can improve patient care, reduce adverse effects and perhaps slow the emergence of antimicrobial resistance. However, changing behaviour of prescribers is challenging, with barriers and facilitators often common across diverse prescribing groups – doctors and veterinarians. Many of the physical challenges facing prescribers are also shared and lessons can be learned about implementation of interventions between groups. In this article we discuss qualitative and quantitative research, and interventions in AMS, in Australia from a One Health perspective.