Release date: 30 January 2026
Key Findings for year 2023
Results
Summary
- Total antimicrobial dispensing rose in 2023 but use per service volume remained stable. Increased AMU probably due to increased number of respiratory bacterial infections after resumption of normalcy from COVID-19.
- Non-inpatient antimicrobial use per attendance stayed consistent in 2023, with specialist clinics maintaining the highest rates.
- Increased use of broad-spectrum antibiotics (e.g. ertapenem) in inpatient care signals potential resistance risks.
- It was noted that there is a rising dispensing of doxycycline, particularly in inpatient services, probably due to treatment for atypical pneumonia.
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Recommendations
- Continue monitoring antimicrobial usage in HA hospitals and clinics to assess the effectiveness of the Antibiotic Stewardship Program, with a focus on specialties showing continued increases in dispensing volume.
Acknowledgement
We would like to acknowledge stakeholders from HA including the Information Technology & Health Informatics Division, Quality and Safety Division, Strategy and Planning Division, Chief Pharmacist’s Office, and various Working Groups for provision of input to facilitate compilation of the AMU surveillance findings for year 2023.
Past Reports
Key findings for year 2023 
Results of the Report 
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