Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is one of the biggest public health challenges of the century. It occurs when microorganisms develop the ability to render antimicrobial medication ineffective, and results in higher treatment failure rates. The development of AMR is largely driven by antimicrobial overconsumption. If appropriate measures aren’t taken, by 2050, more than 10 million people worldwide could die from AMR each year. So what can governments, hospitals and healthcare institutions rely on to develop effective measures?
According to Joanna Merckx, Director of Medical Affairs at bioMérieux Canada, the Global Point Prevalence Survey (G-PPS) is a first-of-its kind, validated and easy-to-use tool that documents and measures antimicrobial use and prescription practices in hospitals around the world. Although bioMérieux funds the G-PPS, it takes no part in preparing the study and collecting, analysing and interpreting data, nor does it have any access to the reports that are generated. This entirely independent project is developed in a hospital setting and conducted worldwide. Hospitals can use the tool to gather and analyze internal data on antimicrobial use, compare their practices to similar institutions, and develop measurable intervention methods. On a larger scale, the data are compiled to provide an overview of the situation, prepare publications, and inform decision-making and the development of solutions to combat AMR.
In 2015 and 2017, multiple hospitals across Canada took part in the initiative, providing useful data into this specific market. As surveillance is the cornerstone of the battle, the most effective way to move forward is joint participation and the creation of additional survey questions. By 2019, the survey will incorporate these questions for Canadian healthcare institutions while remaining a part of the larger global project.
Watch this video to learn more about the G-PPS and its contribution to the fight against antimicrobial resistance.
To participate in the G-PPS, please visit their website: http://www.global-pps.com/
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