Perceptions and practice of physicians and pharmacists regarding antibiotic misuse at primary health centres in Qatar: A cross-sectional study

OBJECTIVES: The inappropriate use of antibiotics is a critical global health issue. The lack of antimicrobial stewardship exposes the community to unwarranted medication and contributes to the development of antimicrobial resistance. This study evaluated the perceptions and practice of physicians and pharmacists at primary healthcare centres of Qatar with respect to antibiotic misuse. METHODS: In this cross-sectional study, we recruited 226 physicians and 82 pharmacists in primary health care centres. A multistage cluster sampling technique was used for data collection. Separate self-administered questionnaires were administered to physicians and pharmacists. RESULTS: Response rates for physicians and pharmacists were 97.8% and 100%, respectively. Both physicians (90.7%) and pharmacists (87.8%) perceived antibiotic misuse as a major public health issue. To prevent antibiotic misuse, most physicians and pharmacists reported a focus on patient education as well as good practices in their work. CONCLUSION: This study provides novel evidence on the perceptions and practices of health professionals concerning antibiotic prescription in primary healthcare settings of Qatar.