Mainstreaming antimicrobial resistance interventions into primary health care in Kazakhstan: mission report

Overview

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a major threat to global health. WHO worked with Kazakhstan and three other countries (Indonesia, Sweden and Thailand) to identify best practices, gaps and further opportunities for integrating AMR interventions into primary health care. There has been a long history of investment in primary health care in Kazakhstan, and the regulatory environment provides a strong foundation for AMR-relevant interventions, such as on the appropriate use of antibiotics and infection prevention and control, with a need for strengthening enforcement of some regulations. This report provides the background, findings, and summary of discussion points and recommended actions arising from a national stakeholder workshop held in Almaty, Kazakhstan, in August 2024. Key recommended actions include: Integrating basic indicators related to AMR into primary care management and practice; strengthening and extending health information systems to ensure standardized information on diagnoses, treatment and prescription in primary care facilities; and expanding opportunities for education and training on AMR for health care providers, with regular, practical opportunities to refresh skills and knowledge. These recommended actions could form the basis for future technical assistance to integrate AMR interventions into Kazakhstan’s PHC-oriented health system.