Wide Variability in VA Outpatient IV Antibiotic Programs
This mixed-methods study documents how inconsistently outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy is structured and monitored across Veterans Affairs facilities, exposing coordination gaps directly relevant to ambulatory care pharmacists managing postdischarge IV antibiotics.
outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapyOPATantimicrobial stewardshipinfectious diseasesVeterans Affairscare coordinationmixed-methodsqualitative studyambulatory care pharmacyIV antibioticsdeprescribingsafety monitoringAmbulatory Care / MTM
Background Information
OPAT delivery in Veterans Affairs hospitals is highly variable, impacting care quality.
Outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT) is critical for continuous care in veterans, but variability in practice may affect patient safety and quality. Among 78 VAMCs, 76.9% had designated OPAT managers and 96.2% evaluated OPAT appropriateness. Variability in processes and roles was noted, impacting care delivery. Identifying consistent OPAT practices and implementing structured processes could enhance patient outcomes, though staffing and cost remain challenges. Structured OPAT processes and dedicated resources improve care consistency across Veterans Affairs Medical Centers.
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Executive Summary
Study Design
Patient Population
Primary Outcomes
Secondary Outcomes & Safety Profile
Pharmacist Implications
Clinical Pearls
Limitations
Controversies & Evidence Gaps
Cost & Logistics
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