A new study in the BJGP about GP antibiotic prescribing ignores two key factors, GP locums have told NASGP.
The study, which found that GP locums contribute to higher antibiotic prescribing compared with their peers, was discussed by NASGP members in a GP-only forum.
One GP commented: “Two factors not mentioned: (i) locums see a different subsection of patients – more often used to immediate access and demands; (ii) the prior prescribing patterns of different practices affects patient behaviours.
“To be a valid comparison you’d need to compare the locum v partner outcomes on the same patient group with the same presenting complaints.”
Another GP supported this comment: “As a newer doctor, I tend to be more stringent with my antibiotic prescriptions than those who have been practising for many years and this is something I see with other newly-qualified and salaried GPs.
“It would be interesting to see a breakdown by years working, given that a lot of senior doctors switch to locuming for a few years before retiring.”
In full the authors concluded: “Locums contribute to higher antibiotic prescribing compared with their peers. They experience challenges but also opportunities for contributing to AMS , which should be better addressed. With an increasing proportion of locums in general practice, they have an important role in antibiotic optimisation and AMS.”
Dr Richard Fieldhouse, NASGP chair, said: “As we highlighted last week, GP locums are often poorly understood and misrepresented, despite providing a significant amount of patient care. Very little research has been performed into the complexities of how we work.
“This paper raises many questions, and together with insightful feedback from our members goes to show that more research needs to be done on this subject.
“As well as publishing regular clinical updates from Dr Louise Hudman, NASGP provides regular forums for members to discuss clinical topics like antibiotic prescribing and share best practice. This usually happens in face-to-face NASGP Locum Chambers meetings, but we also discuss clinical topics in our GP-only members forum and Facebook group.
“Lastly, don’t miss our very popular download for locums to review their own prescribing with a colleague.”
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