In a first globally, Indian Medical Association launches “IMA AMR Smart Hospital’ initiative

New Delhi: The Indian Medical Association (IMA) has announced the successful completion of the pilot phase of its ground-breaking initiative, “IMA AMR Smart Hospital Project.”

Claimed to be the first of its kind globally, this program aims to combat the rising threat of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) by implementing advanced Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS) and Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) strategies in healthcare facilities across India.

These hospitals are KD Hospital, Ahmedabad, Gujarat; Mahavir Jaipuria Rajasthan Hospital, Jaipur; Sehgal Neo Hospital, Delhi; and 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.

“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.

Recognizing this urgent issue, the IMA, as the largest body of doctors in India, launched the “IMA AMR Smart Hospital” certification initiative to promote accountability and best practices in antimicrobial usage. This initiative focuses on strengthening AMS and IPC activities, which include monitoring AMR patterns, improving antimicrobial stewardship, and preventing the spread of resistant pathogens within healthcare facilities.

“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,” stated Dr. Anilkumar J Nayak, Honorary Secretary General of IMA.

The pilot phase of the project witnessed enthusiastic participation from hospitals across the country. Registration forms were distributed to more than 1,700 IMA branches, and through a rigorous selection process, hospitals from diverse regions and healthcare settings were chosen for participation. An Accreditation Committee of leading experts was formed to oversee the initiative, ensuring quality standards and guiding the process. Participating hospitals underwent thorough assessments, including initial evaluations, expert mentoring, and final on-site assessments based on a comprehensive checklist.

The “IMA AMR Smart Hospital Project” is a global pioneer, offering a replicable and scalable model to address AMR at the institutional level. It aligns with global health priorities, including the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG’s) by promoting responsible use of antibiotics and preventing the spread of resistant pathogens.

The IMA remains committed to combating AMR and invites stakeholders from healthcare professionals to policymakers and civil society to join hands in expanding this initiative across the nation.

“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,” concluded Dr. Narendra Saini.

This project serves as an inspiration for nationwide and global interventions to curb the AMR crisis, paving the way for a transformational approach to public health.