Policy, practice, and prediction: model-based approaches to evaluating N. gonorrhoeae antibiotic susceptibility test uptake in Australia

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a global health concern, with Neisseria gonorrhoea being a key pathogen. The Australian Gonococcal Surveillance Program (AGSP) is crucial for monitoring resistance, but antibiotic susceptibility test (AST) uptake remains a limiting factor. A study developed two models to simulate the clinician-patient dynamics influencing AST initiation. Results showed that clinician education and clinical support tools are effective strategies to improve AST. Mandated testing could increase AST initiation rates, but considerations like practicality, laboratory constraints, and culture failure rate need to be considered.