Background & History
In January 2000, the California Medical Association Foundation initiated
a long-term, statewide effort to promote the appropriate use of antibiotics called,
Alliance Working for Antibiotic Resistance Education, (AWARE). AWARE is a partnership
that includes physician organizations, healthcare providers, health systems, health
plans, public health agencies, consumer and community based health organizations,
federal, state and local government representatives and the pharmaceutical industry.
AWARE has grown to be the largest, most collaborative project of its kind in the
nation. Over 80 organizations are part of AWARE’s statewide coalition, with more
than 200 volunteers actively involved from these groups in AWARE activities.
AWARE Project Mission
Reduce the unnecessary use of antibiotics and reduce the prevalence of antibiotic
resistant bacteria in California.
AWARE Project Goals
- Increase appropriate prescribing of antibiotics.
- Raise consumer awareness and understanding regarding the appropriate use of antibiotics.
- Mobilize the community to reduce the unnecessary use of antibiotics.
Timeline and Achievements
- 2007 – Developed the first comprehensive Cold and Flu Provider Toolkit.
- 2004 – Adult and Pediatric Acute Respiratory Tract Infection Guideline Summary
developed for clinicians
- 2004 – Patient and Consumer Education Materials Developed
- 2004 – AWARE received the Award for Innovation in Appropriate Antibiotic Use Programs
in the Community from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
- 2002 – AWARE received the Best of Blue Award from the Blue Cross and Blue Shield
Association
- 2002 – AWARE National Conference: Over 140 people attended the conference from
33 states and the District of Columbia.
- 2002 – AWARE Awards
- 2002 – Handwashing Curriculum, “Wash The Germs Away!” Created
- 2001 – AWARE held first Antibiotic Awareness Week