The Global-PPS team is proud to share its latest scientific publication exploring how antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) is being implemented in hospitals across low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) within the Global Point Prevalence Survey (Global-PPS) network. While point prevalence surveys have become a critical tool in monitoring antimicrobial use and promoting stewardship activities, little was previously known about how AMS programmes are actually put into practice in these diverse healthcare settings. Through in-depth qualitative interviews with 22 healthcare workers in 16 countries, this study uncovers the everyday realities, challenges, and strategies shaping AMS implementation in LMIC hospitals.

The study found that AMS implementation varies widely, with some hospitals just beginning their journey and others embedding AMS into broader quality improvement efforts. Participants highlighted the Global-PPS as a valuable educational and implementation resource, but also pointed to key barriers—limited institutional support, funding constraints, workforce challenges, and gaps in diagnostics—that often hindered translating data into action. Four major themes emerged from the analysis: institutional support and resources, AMS team functioning and expertise, integration of AMS recommendations into practice, and the role of data-driven decision-making. Despite systemic challenges, healthcare workers demonstrated innovation and resilience, using strategies such as task-shifting, local ownership, and adaptive leadership to move AMS forward.

This study sheds light on the critical determinants of successful AMS implementation in LMICs and reinforces the importance of contextualised strategies and behaviour change research. It also affirms the role of Global-PPS as more than just a surveillance tool—it is a platform for shared learning, capacity building, and fostering stewardship culture worldwide. As the G-PPS network continues to grow, these insights will help shape future AMS interventions and support sustainable improvements in antimicrobial use across healthcare systems globally.

Read the full publication on the BMC website here: https://aricjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13756-025-01541-6