All PlansCoverageMedium impact
Avoid Antibiotics for Acute Bronchitis and Other Viruses
BCBS Texas·TX · Family Medicine, Internal Medicine, General Practice +2 more·General
Effective date
Aug 20, 2025
We identified it
Jan 12, 2026
Summary
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Texas is reminding providers to avoid prescribing antibiotics for acute bronchitis and other viral infections, as they are ineffective against viruses and contribute to antibiotic resistance. This guidance emphasizes appropriate treatment protocols and affects quality measure tracking for antibiotic avoidance.
Action Required
Immediately: Providers should review current prescribing practices for acute bronchitis and viral infections to ensure antibiotics are not prescribed inappropriately. Update clinical protocols to recommend alternatives like rest, fluids, humidifiers, and OTC symptom treatments. Document medical necessity when antibiotics are prescribed for bacterial infections to support quality measure compliance.