The Wisconsin Antibiotic Resistance Network (WARN)
was launched in 1999 to educate physicians and the public
about judicious antimicrobial drug use. Public education
included radio and television advertisements, posters,
pamphlets, and presentations at childcare centers.
Physician education included mailings, susceptibility
reports, practice guidelines, satellite conferences, and presentations.
We analyzed antimicrobial prescribing data for
primary care physicians in Wisconsin and Minnesota (control
state). Antimicrobial prescribing declined 19.8% in
Minnesota and 20.4% in Wisconsin from 1998 to 2003.
Prescribing by internists declined significantly more in
Wisconsin than Minnesota, but the opposite was true for
pediatricians. We conclude that the secular trend of declining
antimicrobial drug use continued through 2003, but a
large-scale educational program did not generate greater
reductions in Wisconsin despite improved knowledge.
State and local organizations should consider a balanced
approach that includes limited statewide educational activities
with increasing emphasis on local, provider-level interventions
and policy development to promote careful
antimicrobial drug use.

• Quantitative data - Quantitative data were used during the intervention

• Human - All activities regarding organisations and individuals involved in health products and services

• General (human health)
• Healthcare delivery