Implementation of an antimicrobial stewardship program in an Australian metropolitan private hospital: lessons learned

Introduction: While there is literature on the implementation and efficacy of antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) programs in the public hospital setting, there is little concerning their implementation in the private hospital setting. Resources to guide the implementation of such programs often fail to take into consideration the resource limitations and cultural barriers faced by private hospitals. In this paper we discuss the main obstacles encountered when implementing an AMS program at a private hospital and methods that were used to overcome them. Methods: In 2012, St Vincent's Private Hospital Melbourne implemented an AMS program that was tailored to suit the requirements and limitations faced by private hospitals. Baseline data was collected to determine areas of priority. Cultural barriers were overcome by forming relationships between AMS and non-AMS personnel, involving key clinical stakeholders when developing hospital policies, and having ample support from hospital executives. We also modified our approach to conventional AMS interventions so that typically resource-intensive projects could be carried out with minimal resources, such as the restriction of antimicrobials via a two-stage post-prescription review model. Results: Through our AMS program, we have been able to implement multiple initiatives including a formulary restriction, significantly reduce aminoglycoside use, develop hospital guidelines and regularly contribute data to national surveillance programs. Conclusion: While there are guidelines available to help develop an AMS program, these guidelines need to be adapted to suit different hospital settings. Private hospitals present a unique challenge in the implementation of AMS programs. Identifying and addressing barriers specific to an individual institution is vital.