Antimicrobial stewardship in the community setting: a qualitative exploratory study

This study explores health professionals’ perspectives on community antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) practices and systems in South-East Queensland, Australia. The research used semi-structured interviews and the Elements of Medicines Stewardship (EMS) to analyze data. The findings reveal a state of ambiguity and fragmentation in the Australian community AMS system, which is in its nascent stages of development. The study highlights the need for community-specific governance and multidisciplinary strategies to support effective implementation and enhance patient outcomes. This research will inform community AMS intervention strategies, influencing policy and practice to advance sustainable healthcare and address antimicrobial resistance.