Evaluation of the effect of rapid antigen test application on antibiotic prescription in the context of rational drug USE

ABSTRACT Evaluation of the Effect of Rapid Antigen Test on Antibiotic Prescribing in Rational Drug Use Rapid antigen testing (RAT) is a practical test for detecting the presence of Group A Beta Hemolytic Streptococcus antigens. The aim of this study is to investigate the changes in the empiric antibiotic prescribing approach in 2017 using RAT in the period of 2015-2016 without using RAT in 10 Family Medicine departments in Kırıkkale province. HAT test was started to be used in Family Medicine in February 2017. The Family Medicine Information System (AHBS) includes policlinic and prescription records of 10 family physicians who work in Kırıkkale, addressing approximately 35000 population. The number of antibiotics prescribed by physicians are in accordance with the ICD-10 diagnoses (including upper respiratory tract infections) in February, March and April in 2015, 2016, 2017 and their groups were determined. The antibiotic numbers and groups prescribed in February, March, April, 2015, 2016 and 2017 were determined. The antibiotic numbers and groups of family prescribed with the desired diagnosis at the periods specified in the AHBS were recorded. Antibiotic prescriptions do not show a significant difference between the years of 2015 and 2016. There was a statistically significant decrease in the 2017 compared to 2015 and 2016 (p <0.05). This study shows that there has been a significant decrease in antibiotic prescription of the Family Physicians in 2017 as a result of comparison of antibiotic prescribing in February, March, April in 2015, 2016 and 2017 in 10 Family Medicine departments. The use of RAT resulted in a decrease in antibiotic prescription in 2017. Key Words: A group beta hemolytic streptococcus, Family medicine, Pharmacoeconomics, Rapid antigen testing, Rational antibiotics use