Antibiotic Use Exceeds 95% for Uncomplicated Diverticulitis in VA Facilities

A recent study published online on June 23 in the *Annals of Internal Medicine* reports that antibiotic prescribing for uncomplicated diverticulitis remains above 95 % across Veterans Affairs (VA) health‑care facilities. The analysis, which examined electronic health‑record data from VA hospitals nationwide, found that nearly all patients receiving care for this common gastrointestinal condition were prescribed antibiotics, despite guidelines that recommend a more selective approach for uncomplicated cases.

Uncomplicated diverticulitis is characterized by localized inflammation without abscess, perforation, or systemic infection. Current clinical guidelines advise that many patients can be managed with observation or short‑course oral antibiotics, and in some instances, no antibiotics may be necessary. The study’s findings highlight a persistent gap between evidence‑based recommendations and real‑world practice within the VA system, raising concerns about potential overuse of antibiotics and the associated risks of resistance and adverse events. The authors note that the high prescribing rate may reflect entrenched clinical habits or limited access to alternative management strategies in some VA settings.

The authors conclude that targeted stewardship interventions—such as provider education, decision‑support tools, and audit‑feedback mechanisms—could help align VA prescribing practices with guideline recommendations. Further research will be needed to assess the impact of such measures on patient outcomes and antibiotic resistance patterns within the veteran population.