O02 Patterns of GP and nurse-independent prescriber prescriptions for antibiotics dispensed in the community in England: a retrospective analysis

Abstract Background The substitution of nurses for doctors is a strategy used in primary care to improve access to, and efficiency quality of, care. Many these prescribe medicines including antibiotics. Objectives To identify nurse-independent prescriber (NIP) GP numbers England, the proportions types NIPs antibiotic prescriptions dispensed community, impact COVID-19 on volume, rate dispensed. Methods A descriptive population-based retrospective cohort study using data obtained from National Health Service Business Authority (under Freedom Information request) antibiotics community England between January 2014 October 2021. Results Between 2021, number (headcount) almost doubled 24 457 41 649. Of 649 34 997 (84%) were i.e. rise 146% over this 6-year period. By contrast, rose by 10% 44 681. 25.373 million responsible 8.6%. decreased (NIPs 50% GPs 21%) 2020 (where across full year available). This decreasing trend continued following onset pandemic both groups. In line with guidance treatment minor infections, narrow-spectrum (penicillins, macrolides tetracyclines) most frequently GPs. Trends prescription during reflected use individual classes prescribed RTIs. Conclusions Given rising nurse prescribers their increasing contributory influence total prescribing, it important that group included antimicrobial stewardship efforts. fewer than but work under different conditions (e.g. longer consultations less complex patients), so, interventions should also be tailored population context which they are delivered.