Exploring vets' and farmers' beliefs about prudent antibiotic use

Abstract

Background: Rates of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in bacteria are increasing, partly due to inappropriate antibiotic use in human and animal medicine, including in farming. To reduce the public health threat from rising rates of AMR, ‘prudent prescribing’ needs to be encouraged amongst both doctors and veterinarians (vets). Research already exists to understand and improve prescribing behaviours by doctors, but corresponding research into vets’ behaviour is lacking. It is therefore important to explore the beliefs that vets, and their farmer clients, hold about antibiotic use in farming. Research questions: • What beliefs do vets and farmers hold about the risks of AMR to human and animal health? • What do vets and farmers perceive to be their responsibilities for prudent antibiotic use in their livestock? Methods: A qualitative approach will be used. Semi-structured interviews will be conducted, via the telephone, to enable UK-wide recruitment. Participants will be 20 farm vets and 20 commercial livestock farmers. Interviews will be audio-recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data will be analysed using thematic analysis. Expected results: This study will provide insight into whether vets and farmers perceive similar motivations and barriers to prudent antibiotic prescribing, and whether they make incorrect assumptions about each others’ beliefs. Current stage of work: A study protocol is currently under review with the University’s Ethics Committee. Recruitment is anticipated to commence Spring 2016. Discussion: Future behaviour change interventions targeting vets and farmers should consider the views of individuals from both professions; findings from this study will contribute to informing such interventions.