Exploring patients' adherence to antibiotics by understanding their health knowledge and relational communication in encounters with pharmacists and physicians.

Background: Antibiotics are drugs essential for the treatment of bacterial infections. Widespread and often improper use of antibiotics are driving the emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) globally. A better understanding of the communicated and understood use of antibiotics as well as improved adherence to treatments are needed to meet this public health threat.

Objectives: The aim of the study is to explore how knowledge of antibiotic use is collected and communicated between patients, physicians, and pharmacists, and how patients seek, understand and use available information on antibiotics in adherence to prescribed treatment.

Methods: Seven focus group interviews were conducted with community pharmacists (three groups, eleven participants), physicians/general practitioners (two groups, thirteen participants), and patients (two groups, eight participants) in Norway. Four focus group interviews were conducted offline and three online. The interview data were analyzed using systematic text condensation in a four-step, descriptive and explorative thematic analysis.

Results: Three main themes were developed about patients' adherence to antibiotics: 1. patients' knowledge about antibiotics and AMR; 2. sources of information about antibiotics/AMR; and 3. relational communication. Patient knowledge about both antibiotics and AMR was somewhat limited, and showed considerable variation. Patients relied on the internet, chat sites, printed information, and face-to-face meetings with health professionals for information. Relational communication between patients, physicians, and pharmacists was found to be important in reducing misunderstandings.Vulnerability, limited time, and lack of communication were barriers to receiving and understanding information during patient-physician encounters. Increased knowledge about antibiotics and AMR may result in better adherence to prescribed medications.

Conclusions: Patients seek information about antibiotics and AMR in three arenas; digital platforms, printed material and face to face encounters. However, patients often misunderstand important facts relating to this issue. Relational communication between patients, physicians, and pharmacists was important to ensure adherence to treatment regimens. Pharmacists are encouraged to use open-ended questions and build upon the information obtained from the physician to provide patients with tailored advice and ensure proper adherence. Pharmacists' contribution is crucial in optimizing antibiotic use and combating AMR, as they are the final healthcare point of contact before treatment initiation.