What were we asked to look at?  

The Scottish Health Technologies Group (SHTG) was asked to evaluate the clinical effectiveness, cost effectiveness, safety and patient experience of bacteriophage therapy in patients whose clinical needs are not met by antibiotics (e.g. where bacteria have developed resistance to multiple antibiotics). 

Why is this important 

The prevalence of antibiotic resistance is increasing worldwide, with new resistance mechanisms emerging and spreading globally. As a results of this, bacterial infections are becoming harder, and in some situations impossible, to treat effectively leading to longer hospital stays, higher medical costs and increased mortality.  

NHS Tayside have received initial funding to create a Bacteriophage Unit within their health board starting in February 2022. A report outlining the operations of the service and business case are required to be submitted to NHS National Services Scotland 6 months after the service has begun. SHTG's work will be used alongside data collected by the service to inform a decision regarding continued funding. 

Referred by  

A Research Virologist and a Clinical Director & Consultant Vascular Surgeon at NHS Tayside. 

Project Status  

In progress