Tackling Antimicrobial Resistance in Colombia via diagnostic uptake in pig farming

Context

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) around the world is considered one of the most important public health problems, and the non-prudent use of antimicrobials in food-producing animals is a contributing factor to this problem.

Problem

It is important that pig producers can carry out timely diagnoses to reduce the inappropriate use of antimicrobials. This is the rationale behind a new diagnostic platform for swine health and diagnostic services, developed and launched by Porkcolombia, a private sector organization representing more than 80% of pig producers in Colombia.

Project overview

Evidence from qualitative, quantitative and economic analyses will be used to prepare a policy draft on the potential for a new subsidized diagnostic platform, to improve the diagnostic and decision-making process of infectious diseases in the swine industry. The policy draft will be iteratively discussed in high-level round tables. A systematic consensus methodology will be used to summarize key recommendations for the uptake of the subsidised model within the country and potentially across other similar contexts.

Outcomes

This project aims to understand the potential of a new subsidized diagnostic platform, to support a more frequent and better disease diagnosis and appropriate use of antimicrobials in the swine industry in Colombia. The expected outcomes are:

• An improved understanding of the barriers and challenges for uptake of a subsidised private diagnostic service to inform a better and more prudent use of antimicrobials in Colombian pig farming
• Improved stakeholder engagement for more prudent use of antimicrobials in Colombian pig farming
• Knowledge transfer of project results