Cost-benefit analysis of a population-based education program on the wise use of antibiotics.

Objective: In 2005, the Do Bugs Need Drugs (DBND) program was imported to British Columbia (BC) from Alberta with the goal of reducing unnecessary antibiotic use in the community. The objective of this study was to estimate the impact of the program on antibiotic-associated costs and cost-benefit.

Methods: We used data on antibiotic prescription and costs from BC PharmaNet for the period of 1996 to 2014.

Evaluation of the Do Bugs Need Drugs? program in British Columbia: Can we curb antibiotic prescribing?

Objective: Antibiotic resistance is accelerated by the overuse of antibiotics. Do Bugs Need Drugs? is an educational program adapted in British Columbia to target both the public and health care professionals, with the aim of reducing unnecessary prescribing. The current article presents a descriptive evaluation of the impact of the program over the first four years.