Abstract

Global action plans to tackle antimicrobial resistance (AMR) are the subject of ongoing
discussion between experts. Community pharmacists have a professional responsibility to tackle
AMR. This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge of antibiotic resistance and attitudes to promoting
Antibiotic Smart Use (ASU) amongst part and full-time practicing community pharmacists across
Thailand. An online mixed-method survey applying Appreciative Inquiry theory was validated
and conducted in 2020. Non-probability sampling was used, with online survey dissemination
via social networks. A total of 387 community pharmacists located in 59 out 77 provinces seemed
knowledgeable about antimicrobial resistance (mean score = 82.69%) and had acceptable attitudes
towards antibiotic prescribing practices and antimicrobial stewardship (mean score = 73.12%). Less
than 13% of pharmacists had postgraduate degrees. Postgraduate education, training clerkship,
preceptors, and antibiotic stewardship training positively affected their attitudes. The community
pharmacists proposed solutions based on the Appreciative Inquiry theory to promote ASU practices.
Among these were educational programmes consisting of professional conduct, social responsibility
and business administration knowledge.