In observance of World Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Week, we pause our "Rethinking the Prescription Pad" series to focus on the global challenge of AMR.

Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems play a vital role in supporting antimicrobial stewardship. This week, we join the global conversation to highlight how EHRs help healthcare providers monitor antibiotic use and contribute to the fight against AMR.

The Challenge of AMR

Antimicrobial Resistance is a critical global health issue, threatening the effectiveness of antibiotics and other antimicrobial agents. Electronic Health Records (EHRs) provide tools that empower healthcare providers to address this challenge through better prescribing practices, data tracking, and research support.

Monitoring Antibiotic Prescriptions

EHR systems help medical professionals in outpatient clinics monitor antibiotic prescriptions effectively. Well developed systems enable them to track prescribed antibiotics, the frequency with which they are prescribed, and patterns of overuse or misuse. These insights support informed interventions, foster responsible antibiotic stewardship, and reduce inappropriate prescribing practices that drive AMR.

Encouraging Evidence-Based Prescribing

EHR system workflows and decision support tools should promote evidence-based prescribing, enabling physicians to create standardized protocols and predefined formulations aligned with AMR strategies. By reducing reliance on free-text prescriptions, such systems ensure consistency, minimize errors, and enhances adherence to best practices. This approach supports patient care while strengthening efforts to combat AMR.

Facilitating Data Collection for AMR Research

Well designed provide practice-level data that offers valuable insights into the scope of AMR and the effectiveness of interventions. By supporting researchers, policymakers, and healthcare providers, such EHRs contributes to broader AMR research initiatives and global strategies to address this challenge.

Tracking Outcomes of Interventions

Measuring the impact of AMR interventions is critical to refining strategies and ensuring their effectiveness. EHR systems help clinics analyze prescribing patterns and infection rates, providing actionable insights into how interventions influence outcomes. These capabilities enable healthcare providers to refine their approaches and improve AMR management at the practice level.

A Data-Driven Approach to Combating AMR

EHR systems with flexible, workflow-driven design are powerful tools in the fight against AMR. By offering data-driven solutions for monitoring prescriptions, supporting evidence-based practices, and facilitating research, these systems empower healthcare providers to take proactive steps against this global threat.

As we reflect on World AMR Week, we reaffirm the importance of supporting antimicrobial stewardship and combating AMR. Together, with the help of technology, healthcare providers can protect the efficacy of antibiotics and work toward a healthier, more sustainable future.

Ready to see how technology can support your practice’s efforts in addressing AMR? Start your free trial today or contact us to learn more.

Together, we can protect the efficacy of antibiotics and work toward a healthier, more sustainable future.