0
0
New Delhi, India — In a groundbreaking initiative to address the escalating threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), the Indian Medical Association (IMA) has introduced the world’s first “IMA AMR Smart Hospital” certification. This program aims to promote accountability and best practices in antimicrobial usage within healthcare facilities, aligning with global efforts to curb AMR.
Antimicrobial resistance, the ability of bacteria, fungi, and parasites to withstand antimicrobial agents, poses a severe threat to global health. It has been linked to 4.9 million deaths worldwide in 2019 alone. In India, the statistics are particularly alarming, with 297,000 deaths directly attributed to AMR and over one million deaths associated with it in the same year.
“The rising prevalence of AMR is undoing nearly a century of medical advancements. If not addressed, we will be faced with an era where even common infections become untreatable and fatal,” said Dr. Narendra Saini, Chairman of the IMA AMR Standing Committee.
India’s high antibiotic prescription rate—412 for every 1,000 people—has been identified as a significant contributor to the development of resistant pathogens. The IMA’s new initiative seeks to counteract this trend by implementing advanced Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS) and Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) strategies in hospitals across the country.
“Our hospitals are reservoirs of pathogens, making it imperative to implement strong IPC and AMS protocols. With this initiative, we aim to set benchmarks for safe and effective healthcare delivery in the fight against AMR,” said Dr. Anilkumar J Nayak, Honorary Secretary General of IMA.
Pilot Success Stories
The pilot phase of the certification program saw overwhelming interest, with registration forms distributed to more than 1,700 IMA branches nationwide. Through a meticulous selection process, hospitals from various regions and healthcare settings were chosen to participate.
Four hospitals were recognized as the first recipients of the “IMA AMR Smart Hospital” certification:
- KD Hospital (Gujarat)
- Mahavir Jaipuria Rajasthan Hospital (Jaipur)
- Sehgal Neo Hospital (Delhi)
- Ananthapuri Hospital and Research Institute (Kerala)
“These hospitals have set a high standard in the fight against AMR, showcasing what can be achieved through robust AMS and IPC practices,” Dr. Saini noted.
A Scalable Global Model
The IMA AMR Smart Hospital Project represents a pioneering effort to address AMR at the institutional level. Designed to be both replicable and scalable, the initiative aligns with international health priorities, including the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.
By promoting responsible antibiotic use and preventing the spread of resistant pathogens, the program sets a precedent for global healthcare systems.
“The fight against AMR is not just a medical challenge but a societal responsibility. Together, we can ensure a safer and healthier future for generations to come,” Dr. Saini emphasized.
The IMA’s bold initiative marks a significant step in the global battle against antimicrobial resistance, offering hope for preserving the efficacy of life-saving medicines and ensuring better healthcare outcomes.
