Outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT) in the UK: a cross-sectional survey of acute hospital trusts and health boards

• Published in: Diagnostic microbiology and infectious disease 2019-01, Vol.93 (1), p.58-62
• Main Authors: Durojaiye, Oyewole Christopher, Cartwright, Katharine, Ntziora, Fotinie
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Home intravenous antibiotics; OPAT; Outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy; Survey
• ISSN: 0732-8893; 1879-0070
• DOI: 10.1016/j.diagmicrobio.2018.07.013

This study reviews the current OPAT service provision in the UK and evaluates concordance with the national OPAT practice guidelines (standards of care). We conducted a survey of acute hospital trusts and health boards in the UK regarding OPAT practices between June and September 2017. 165 (93%) of the 178 acute hospital trusts/health boards that were contacted responded to the survey. 100 (61%) indicated they had an OPAT service. Ten (10%) OPAT services did not involve an infection specialist. Bone and joint infections, and skin and soft-tissue infections were the most common conditions treated. Most OPAT services (74%) hold weekly multidisciplinary meetings/virtual ward rounds to review patient's progress. 73% had a dedicated OPAT database. We identified variations in practice and concordance with the national OPAT good practice guidelines. In an era of increasing demand for home-based care, further studies are required to identify the optimal configuration of OPAT services with regards to quality and patient safety. •In the UK, outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT) has expanded in last decade.•Significant variations exist in OPAT practices and clinical governance arrangements.•The national OPAT practice recommendations are not completely met.