The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has announced the completion of the pilot phase of its pioneering “IMA AMR Smart Hospital Project,” an initiative aimed at tackling the escalating crisis of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR). This program, the first of its kind globally, introduces advanced Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS) and Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) strategies to healthcare facilities across India, setting a global benchmark for AMR management.
Leading the Fight Against AMR
Antimicrobial Resistance has emerged as a critical global health challenge, threatening to reverse decades of medical advancements. “The rising prevalence of AMR is undoing nearly a century of medical progress. If not addressed, we will face an era where even common infections become untreatable and fatal,” warned Dr. Narendra Saini, Chairman of the IMA AMR Standing Committee.
Recognising the urgency of this issue, the IMA launched the “IMA AMR Smart Hospital” certification initiative. This program encourages hospitals to adopt rigorous AMS and IPC practices, aiming to curb the misuse of antimicrobials and prevent the spread of resistant pathogens.
Pilot Phase Success
The pilot phase of the initiative featured four participating hospitals that set the standard for AMS and IPC implementation:
These hospitals underwent comprehensive evaluations and mentoring under the supervision of an Accreditation Committee comprising leading experts. The process included initial assessments, tailored mentoring, and final on-site evaluations using a detailed checklist.
A National and Global Model
The “IMA AMR Smart Hospital Project” is designed to be scalable and replicable, addressing AMR at the institutional level. It aligns with global health priorities, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), by promoting the responsible use of antibiotics and reducing the spread of resistant pathogens.
Dr. Anilkumar J Nayak, Honorary Secretary General of the IMA, emphasised the role of hospitals in this initiative. “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.”
Scaling the Initiative
To maximise impact, registration forms for participation were disseminated to over 1,700 IMA branches. The rigorous selection process ensured representation from diverse regions and healthcare settings, paving the way for widespread adoption.
The IMA is now calling on all stakeholders, including healthcare professionals, policymakers, and civil society, to support the expansion of this initiative. “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,” stated Dr. Narendra Saini.
The IMA AMR Smart Hospital Initiative serves as an inspiration for national and global efforts to combat AMR. By fostering accountability and promoting best practices, the program is paving the way for a transformational approach to public health.
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