Impact of postal prescriber feedback on prescribing practice of Andalucian primary care paediatricians

Abstract

Objectives Audit and feedback on prescribing patterns is widely used to improve some aspects of prescribing. It is not known whether this strategy increases primary care paediatricians' (PCPs') practice quality. The aim of this study was to assess the impact of postal prescriber feedback on the prescribing patterns of Andalucian PCPs. Methods A quasi‐experimental intervention study without control group was developed. PCPs received feedback with specific indicators on prescribing patterns during a 2‐year period. Feedback was accompanied by updates of scientific evidence supporting first‐line therapies. Changes in prescribing rates of PCPs, the proportion of PCPs reaching fixed standards and prescriber variability before and during 2 years' intervention were compared. Key findings Considerable improvement was found in the relative use of first‐line penicillins whereas macrolide use decreased. Prescribing ratios of anti‐asthmatics did not vary significantly. More PCPs reached fixed standards after starting intervention. At the same time, inter‐individual prescribing variability decreased significantly. Conclusions Continuous audit and feedback combined with educational materials and maintained for a 2‐year period has a positive impact on prescribing PCPs' quality prescribing. The success of the programme would be based on the active involvement of the professionals issuing prescriptions.