Millions of people worldwide lack access to effective antimicrobial medicines. At the same time, antimicrobial resistance (AMR) – a consequence of overuse and misuse of antimicrobials – is increasingly a barrier to effective healthcare. The declining effectiveness of antibiotics is driven by multiple factors, many of which can be addressed through well-functioning primary healthcare systems.

In a new brief, CDDEP researchers examine the links between primary healthcare and AMR and explore opportunities that exist at the community-level to increase access to effective antimicrobials while also addressing AMR.

The report was prepared ahead of the World Health Organization’s Global Conference on Primary Healthcare held in October 2018 where leaders and representatives from WHO member countries and international organizations renewed their commitment to improving primary health worldwide.

This report has been published both in full and in a four-page summary as part of a technical series on primary healthcare. The brief is available for download (above) and can also be viewed online here.

Photo Credit: World Health Organization.