Journal of Korean medical science
Nationwide Survey of Antimicrobial Stewardship in Korean Hospitals: Insights From the Early Stage of the 2024 National Pilot Implementation
By Lim SM, Lee R, Park SY and 8 others.
Abstract
Background
Antimicrobial stewardship programmes (ASPs) are essential for optimising antibiotic use and mitigating antimicrobial resistance. In Korea, antimicrobial consumption exceeds the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development average, and ASP activities remain fragmented, particularly in smaller hospitals. In November 2024, the National Health Insurance Service introduced a pilot reimbursement scheme to support ASPs in hospitals with ≥ 300 beds. This study aimed to provide baseline data to evaluate its impact.
Methods
A nationwide web-based survey was conducted between January and February 2025 among 297 hospitals with ≥ 300 beds. The questionnaire was designed to allow comparison with the 2020 national survey and to assess the ASP infrastructure, resources, and practices.