Doctors specializing in epidemiology at the Guatemalan Social Security Institute (IGSS) have introduced a proposal to establish committees under the Antimicrobial Optimization Program (PROA). These committees aim to standardize criteria for prescribing antibiotics and strengthen epidemiological surveillance.
Dr. Eugenia María Martínez, head of Microbiology at the General Hospital of Diseases, explained that the main responsibilities of these committees will include analyzing resistance patterns, updating the list of antimicrobials, and monitoring their use in clinical services. "Having scientific and updated information will allow us to make more accurate decisions for the benefit of patients," she said.
Dr. Paula Figueroa, an adult infectious disease specialist, emphasized that antibiotics should only be used with a medical prescription because indiscriminate or inappropriate use contributes to antimicrobial resistance. "A correctly indicated treatment improves clinical outcomes and prevents future complications," she stated.
The initiative is part of IGSS's ongoing efforts to ensure patient safety and promote evidence-based practices to preserve the effectiveness of antimicrobial treatments.
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