The Outpatient Parenteral Antimicrobial Therapy Conference, held 2-3 March 2011 at the iCC, Birmingham was a huge suggess. Over 300 participants from many disciplines met to share experiences, hear the latest in OPAT practice and participate in a range of workshops.
The Conference provided a superb opportunity to discuss the forthcoming outputs of the BSAC UK OPAT Initiative. This multidisciplinary project led by Professor Dilip Nathwani, supports and encourages the establishment of standardized OPAT services throughout the UK wherever the clinical need may exist.
The following resources are under development and will be released during early summer 2011:
Standards Group - Good Practice Recommendations - currently out for review prior to formal consultation. You can view and contribute to the review by participating on our online survey.
Business Tool Kit - an online business case toolkit is under development. This will enable users to generate bespoke business cases to support their bids for services or to enhance current OPAT services. You can obtain a printed copy from the Executive Director, Tracey Guise.
OPAT Database and National Outcomes Dashboard - the OPAT database has been released for testing, with national rollout planned for June 2011. To test the database please click here. Your username will be your email address and the password is evergreen.
National Preceptorship Programmes (NPP) - from the provision on online reference materials to onsite visits by an experienced team of health professionals and providers, the NPP will provide direct support, mentorship and guidance. Trusts will be able to apply for support via the National Preceptorship Programme from early Autumn 2011. Further information to follow.
Online community - via the e-opat website you will be able to join the e-opat community, share your experiences, seek advice and provide and receive support. The community will be launched during April 2011.
For further information on any aspect of the OPAT Initiative, please contact the Executive Director, Tracey Guise
