Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a global threat to public health. Belgium still remains one of the leaders in Europe in the use of antibiotics, and the use of broad-spectrum antibiotics. Reduction and optimisation of antibiotic prescribing is more urgent than ever. This reduction and optimisation concerns all sectors in which antibiotics and biocides are used and prescribed, as AMR does not adhere to species or environmental boundaries. A "One health" approach is therefore necessary.

Several qualitative studies have already been conducted in Belgium, providing insights into the underlying determinants of GPs' prescribing behaviour. As part of the growing importance of a "One Health" approach, an exploratory study is needed that also identifies the prescribing context and antibiotic use of Belgian veterinarians. A recent development in this area is the appointment of coaches (AB coaches, Belplume & Belpork) who guide livestock farmers with excessive antibiotic use towards lower and more responsible antibiotic use. Several studies already showed that coaching the livestock farmer can lead to behavioural change. However, it is still unclear what the success factors of coaching are, e.g. influence of the stage of behavioural change of the farmer, effect of coaching on autonomous motivation in the farmer (self-determination theory) or effect of the communication style of the veterinarian/coach (motivational interviewing). This is essential information for reproducing the success of coaching and for integrating these methods into future training of coaches/veterinarians. A final aspect of this project is the application of interventions to reduce and optimise antibiotic use. In human medicine, several interventions aimed at improving communication between healthcare provider and patient in combination with the use of tools have already been set up, such as the IMPAC3T and GRACE-INTRO studies. In veterinary medicine, similar interventions have not yet been applied within the Belgian context. Possibly, messages from human medicine can be integrated into interventions for veterinary medicine and vice versa.

This research project wants to provide answers to the following questions:

1) How do veterinarians of utility and companion animals perceive their antibiotic use and prescribing behaviour, biocide disposal and antibiotic consumption by clients. 

2) Evaluation of applying coaching for reduced antibiotic use: what are the success factors in coaching the livestock farmer towards better biosecurity and responsible antibiotic use?

3) Development, implementation and evaluation of an intervention targeting veterinarians' prescribing behaviour: can this intervention optimise antibiotic use and prescribing behaviour?