Avoidance of Antibiotic Treatment for Acute Bronchitis/Bronchiolitis (AAB)
Measure Description
Percentage of episodes for Members 3 months of age and older with a diagnosis of acute bronchitis/bronchiolitis that did NOT result in the dispensing of antibiotics on or 3 days after the episode date.
Measure Definitions
- Intake Period: Captures eligible episodes of treatment for acute bronchitis/bronchiolitis between July 1 of the year prior to the measurement year to June 30 of the measurement year.
- Episode Date: The date of service in any outpatient setting with a diagnosis of acute bronchitis/bronchiolitis.
Notes
- This measure is reported as an inverted rate, so a higher rate indicates appropriate acute bronchitis/bronchiolitis treatment.
- Compliance for this measure includes events that did not result in an antibiotic being dispensed.
- If a member has more than one eligible episode in a 31-day period, only the first eligible episode is included.
- Determining eligibility for the measure includes members who had an outpatient visit, ED visit, telephone visit, or telehealth visit for a diagnosis of acute bronchitis/bronchiolitis.
- The measure is based on episodes; therefore it is possible for the denominator to include multiple events for the same person.
Exclusions
- Visits that result in an inpatient stay.
- Members in hospice during the measurement year.
- Members who died during the measurement year.
Best Practices
- Realtime bedside education regarding use of antibiotics.
- Consistent messaging regarding use of antibiotics.
- Educate patients regarding the difference between bacterial vs. viral infections.
- Self-care script pad for over-the-counter treatment for viral infections.
- Choosing Wisely campaign.
- Messaging in treatment rooms, website, and social media platforms.
- Ongoing provider education.
- Ensure to submit all relevant existing co-morbidity diagnosis codes.
Coding and Benefits Disclaimer
Providers and organizations must submit accurate and complete data in accordance with all billing, coding, and medical policy requirements. HEDIS guidance does not override official coding standards or guarantee reimbursement, as coverage is subject to applicable medical/coding policy and member-specific benefits.
Questions
Should you have specific coding or other questions related to the measure, please send your questions to BlueAlliance@bcbsnd.com.
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Updated 8/28/2026
