Towards a Global AMR Diagnostics Consortium: Strategies and Partnerships

The Fleming Initiative offers an innovative approach to the challenge of antimicrobial resistance (AMR)– combining research, behaviour change, public engagement, and policy to provide real-world solutions that work to protect the health security of local populations around the world. 

Effective diagnostics are fundamental to combating AMR. Accurate and timely diagnosis is crucial for guiding appropriate antimicrobial treatment, preventing unnecessary use, and minimising the development and spread of resistant pathogens. Without rapid and reliable diagnostic tools, clinicians risk prescribing broad-spectrum antibiotics, contributing to the selection and amplification of resistant strains. Robust diagnostic capabilities are also essential for effective surveillance, tracking the emergence and spread of resistant bacteria, and informing public health interventions. Investment in and access to high-quality diagnostics are therefore critical to slowing the rise of AMR and preserving the effectiveness of existing and future antimicrobials. A robust economic framework and seamless integration into national action plans (NAPs) are vital for ensuring sustainable access to high-quality diagnostics, incentivising their development and deployment, and ultimately protecting global health security. 

This two-day meeting convenes key stakeholders to establish a global consortium focused on accelerating progress in AMR diagnostics. We will build upon the recent UNGA High-Level Declaration on AMR, addressing critical gaps in access, affordability, and innovation. Our objectives are to define the consortium's mission, governance structure, strategic priorities, and collaborative frameworks, ultimately fostering a coordinated global response to the urgent challenge of AMR through improved diagnostic capabilities. 

Contact Kerri Hill-Cawthorne (k.hill-cawthorne@imperial.ac.uk) for more information. Please find the day one agenda below.

June 16th Agenda:

09:00-09:30 - Welcome and introductions by organising partners

09:30-10:15 - Setting the Stage: The Urgent Need for a Global AMR Diagnostics

10:15-10:30 - Coffee break

10:30-11:15 - Session 1: Current Landscape - Global Initiatives & Tools

11:15-12:00 - Session 2: Regional & Country Perspectives from LMICs

12:00-13:00 - Lunch

13:00-13:40 - Session 3: National AMR Surveillance Systems and Data Integration

13:40-14:10 - Session 4: Diagnostics in Research, Clinical Trials, and AI-driven innovation

14:10-14:30 - Coffee break

14:30-15:00 - Session 5: Economic case, policy for investment

15:00-15:30 - Session 6: Recognised needs and gaps

15:30-16:15 - Wrap up and define next steps

16:15 - Closing remarks and next steps