Achieving Sustainable Improved Practices: PRIDA's Ongoing Commitment to Combat AMR in the Solomon Islands

May 2023 saw the latest visit from a multidisciplinary team to the Solomon Islands, as part of PRIDA’s commitment to COMBAT AMR – a collaboration between the Australian and and Solomon Islands governments involving a one world health approach to limiting antimicrobial resistance in the pacific island nations.

Since its inception in March 2021, the fledgling program has established itself as an important resource for continued quality improvement in this important area of health management.

The latest visit involved a variety of different experts headed up by PRIDA’s Dr Nicola Townell, the Solomon Islands program lead, which included two ID physician/microbiologists, two senior scientists, two infection control specialists and two pharmacists with AMR expertise.

Activities included Grand Rounds, workshops with local medical, nursing and pharmacy staff, and a particular focus on appropriate insertion and management of intravascular devices. Animal health experts also conducted workshops, aimed at the frequently overlooked issue of antibiotic use in domestic livestock. A cornerstone of the program has been the achievement of sustainable improved practices through successful education and mentoring programs at all levels of health care.

With the majority of initial program aims met, important ongoing needs were identified. These include maintaining virtual technical support and further infection control and AMR education and training. The battle against AMR continues.