WHO Outlines AMR Priorities for Primary Health Care Integration

The World Health Organization (WHO) has issued a policy brief outlining eight priority interventions to address antimicrobial resistance (AMR) within primary healthcare (PHC). The recommendations aim to align AMR responses with people-centered approaches while strengthening prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of drug-resistant infections.

AMR is increasing the global incidence of infectious diseases affecting the human population, constituting a significant danger to public health and development. Without effective control, this crisis could cause prolonged illness, larger healthcare costs, significant morbidity, and severe economic setbacks by 2050, cautions the World Bank. 

The growing resistance also complicates the treatment of existing conditions. “Infections like tuberculosis and diseases impacted by AMR, such as HIV and malaria, are becoming harder to treat, further straining healthcare systems,” says José Moya, Representative in Mexico, PAHO/WHO. 

In response to these challenges, the WHO has developed a policy brief that builds on its people-centered approach to AMR. The framework, which includes a core package of 13 interventions, underscores the role of primary health care systems in embedding AMR strategies through integrated services, multisectoral action, and community engagement at national and local levels.

Among the proposed measures, WHO highlights the integration of AMR into PHC policies and strategies, as well as mechanisms for governance that connect AMR, PHC, and universal health coverage. Civil society, professional associations, and the private sector are called to play a larger role in shaping and supporting national responses.

Specific policy actions include embedding antimicrobial stewardship principles in PHC, enforcing regulations to restrict non-prescription sales of antimicrobials, and promoting community-level initiatives, such as the safe return of unused medicines and public health campaigns on AMR. Training and education for primary care workers, including community health workers and pharmacists, are also essential for strengthening frontline capacity.

The brief further recommends the use of PHC facilities to generate surveillance data on antimicrobial use and resistance, ensuring evidence supports decision making. Complementary priorities include access to essential medicines and diagnostics, infection prevention and control, water and sanitation in health facilities, and the adoption of the WHO AWaRe antibiotic book to guide appropriate treatment practices.