Gaps and Barriers in the Implementation and Functioning of Antimicrobial Stewardship Programs

Researchers around the world worked together to identify educational gaps and systemic barriers obstructing adherence to antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) principles in France, India, Mexico, and the United States. According to 72% of survey participants, already existing systemic barriers such as insufficient dedicated time, funding, or training, were perceived as being aggravated during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study also estimates that local, evidence-based AMS guidelines are used in 96% of North American hospitals, 77% of Latin American hospitals, 76% of Asian hospitals, and 72% of European hospitals. 

Maria Virginia Villegas, MD, Adjunct Professor at Universidad El Bosque, Bogota, Colombia

Anucha Apisarnthanarak, PhD, Professor at Thammasat University Hospital, Thailand

Debra Goff, PharmD, Professor of Pharmacy at the Ohio State University, USA

JAC Antimicrobial Resistance
September 30, 2022