P-977. Navigating the Tide with ACORN-HAI-LITE: Frontline Insights for Optimising Antimicrobial Surveillance Efforts in Low to Middle Income Countries

TL;DR

This study explores challenges in antimicrobial surveillance in low- and middle-income countries and suggests ways to improve efforts through better funding and training.

Contribution

The study provides frontline healthcare professionals' insights into AMR implementation barriers and evaluates the impact of ACORN-HAI/II in LMICs.

Findings

Limited funding affects infrastructure, training, and data management in AMR surveillance.

Many healthcare professionals lack awareness and knowledge about AMR, affecting prescribing behaviors.

ACORN-HAI/II has raised awareness but lacks sustained financial support and guideline adherence.

Abstract

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a critical global health threat requiring strong antimicrobial surveillance (AMS) programs. Low and middle-income countries (LMICs) face unique implementation challenges due to limited resources and weak infrastructure.

Our study explored frontline healthcare professionals' experiences in LMICs through a mixed-method approach (survey with 110 respondents, structured interview with 9 interviewees) to pinpoint ongoing barriers to AMR/AMS implementation and assess ACORN-HAI/II's impact. We evaluated their knowledge, attitudes, practices, implementation hurdles, and countermeasure effectiveness.

Our study highlights several critical interconnected issues. Limited funding, cited by two-thirds of respondents, constraints essential infrastructure, training initiatives, and data management. Furthermore, 17-25% of healthcare professionals demonstrate gaps in awareness and knowledge, impacting prescribing behaviors. One-third of respondents reported a divergence between guidelines and real-world clinical application, alongside challenges in communication and collaboration among relevant stakeholders. While ACORN-HAI/II was acknowledged for providing crucial funding and raising awareness, significant gaps remain, particularly in sustained financial support and consistent guideline adherence.

To enhance AMR/AMS efforts in resource-limited settings, we propose strategic resource allocation through diversified funding mechanisms and prioritized investment in laboratory infrastructure and skilled personnel. Fostering a culture of responsible antibiotic usage requires empowering departmental champions to lead educational initiatives and implementing stricter regulations on antibiotic dispensing. Furthermore, transitioning from reactive to proactive strategies necessitates building trust in data, developing user-friendly data dashboards, governmental engagement and rewarding data-driven improvements in clinical practice.

By addressing these multifaceted challenges and leveraging frontline insights, we can optimize resource allocation and strengthen the long-term sustainability of effective AMR surveillance in LMICs.

All Authors: No reported disclosures