The future of antibiotic use
An accompanying editorial, written by Drs. Pranita D. Tamma and Sara E. Cosgrove, begins with a quote from Lord Kelvin: "If you cannot measure it, you cannot improve it."
This recent study provides that vital measurement; now that the size of the problem is better understood, researchers can look to the future and help shape the official response to the crisis.
The U.S. government recognizes the importance of this medical issue and have created a White House National Action Plan for Combating Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria.
According to the document, their goal is to point the government in the right direction, but it is also to "guide action by public health, healthcare, and veterinary partners in a common effort to address urgent and serious drug-resistant threats that affect people in the U.S. and around the world."
According to the current study, there is a long way to go before the healthcare profession meets the targets as set out in the White House's plan.