Antibiotic Resistance and Prescribing in Healthcare (ARPH)

Antibiotic Resistance and Prescribing in Healthcare (ARPH) occurs when bacteria evolve to survive antibiotics, making infections harder to treat. Overprescribing or misuse of antibiotics—such as not finishing a prescribed course or using them for viral illnesses—accelerates this process. As bacteria become resistant, standard treatments become less effective, leading to longer illnesses, more hospital stays, and increased healthcare costs. Responsible prescribing involves using antibiotics only when necessary, choosing the right drug, and advising patients correctly to help preserve their effectiveness and protect public health.