Evaluating the Appropriateness of Antibiotic Treatment of Tonsillitis during COVID-19 in the North Wale Primary Healthcare Setting.

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the delivery of primary care in the NHS. Consultations have largely moved from face-to-face to remote, forcing practitioners to modify the ways in which they deliver care to patients. In this study, we aim to investigate the appropriateness of antibiotic prescribing in tonsillitis during the COVID-19 pandemic. An observational quantitative analysis in the North Wales primary care setting. Retrospective review of computer records across 5 GP centers from March 2020 until the end of October 2020. Data was extracted and analyzed using chi-square or fisher exact rank and Mann-Whitney test. Our results have shown no significant difference in antibiotic prescribing behavior comparing face-to-face and remote consultations. Remote consultation is as effective as face-to-face consultation with regards to the assessment of tonsillitis and the appropriateness of antibiotic prescription in primary care.