More Accurate Use of Antibiotics Could Save the NHS GBP 500 Million Annually

The UK National Health Service (NHS; UK) could save an estimated GBP 500 million each year while reducing the threat of antibiotic resistance by managing the use of antibiotics with more accurate diagnostics.

Against a backdrop of growing global concern, the UK has responded with a major initiative to tackle antimicrobial resistance, with the establishment of a cabinet aimed at combining the minds and efforts of leading research bodies to achieve a collective response. As new research from Public Health England and University College London revealed that the proportion of UK patients given antibiotics for coughs and colds has risen by a staggering 40% since 2000, the debate around the issue assumes additional urgency.

“This study further validates our concerns and reinforces the pressing need for real action," said Dr. Peter FitzGerald, Managing Director at Randox, "There are solutions – new technology to improve diagnostics is available. We are calling on the newly established ‘war cabinet on antimicrobial resistance’ to engage this technology as part of their weaponry and start tackling the issue at the frontline.” As the search for answers continues, Dr. FitzGerald recommends that the cabinet and the medical community make a rapid appraisal of existing innovative technologies with the ability to help.

More accurate diagnosis will improve patient care, reduce unnecessary prescribing, and reduce cost. An estimated 1 million people each year across the UK spend at least 1 week in hospital due to respiratory infections. Using basic calculations, scientists at Randox Laboratories Ltd. (Crumlin, Northern Ireland) estimated that through reducing the average length of hospital stay from 7 to 5 days for patients admitted with respiratory infections, the NHS could save GBP 500 million each year.

Early, first-time diagnosis is critical and scientists at Randox have revealed their latest weapon in the fight against antibiotic resistance: a new test for the identification of respiratory infections—the Randox Respiratory Array. The test screens patient saliva, mucus, or sputum and can accurately identify up to 22 infections, both viral and bacterial, simultaneously, with results to the physician on the same day. The test will contribute to much needed progress, enabling doctors to prescribe the correct antibiotic (not just "an" antibiotic), or another form of effective medication.

"By utilizing our existing resources and employing pioneering technology to inform diagnosis, we can facilitate a much needed behavioral change in prescribing habits," said Dr. FitzGerald. With advanced diagnostic tests such as the Randox Respiratory Array, many infections can be diagnosed accurately within the same day, empowering doctors to prescribe appropriate treatment at first presentation, rather than a "one size fits all" tendency in the current overprescribing of antibiotics.

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