AAMRNet Calls for New Pilot Fund for Antimicrobials
06 May 2022
With antimicrobial resistance (AMR) widely acknowledged as one of the biggest threats to global health, a new position statement from the Australian Antimicrobial Resistance Network (AAMRNet) highlights innovative strategies for bringing new antibiotic treatments to market.
Established by MTPConnect in 2020, AAMRNet is an Australian-first network bringing together industry, clinicians and researchers to address the impact of AMR on human health.
AAMRNet and respective member organisations have developed the position statement to guide the way in which pricing and funding of novel antimicrobials in Australia is undertaken.
AAMRNet co-chair and MTPConnect CEO Stuart Dignam says the position statement is aimed at stimulating discussion and spurring action.
“There is no doubt that multidrug resistance is increasing with AMR on track to claim 10 million lives per year globally and an estimated annual impact on the Australian economy of more than $200 billion,” Mr Dignam said.
“In spite of these stark and sobering impacts, AMR isn’t talked about as much as other health challenges so with this position statement we’re shining a light on the key challenges and some innovation solutions.
“We canvas ways to stimulate research and development for new treatments, novel reimbursement approaches to support and ensure a continuing pipeline of novel therapies and the merits of a pilot Australian fund to provide access to new antimicrobials and support their appropriate use,” Mr Dignam said.
AAMRNet’s second co-chair, Andrew Bowskill, says the initiatives discussed in the position statement are aimed at allowing clinicians to prescribe the right drug to the right patient at the right time.
“Through the efforts of its working group on pricing and funding, AAMRNet has developed this position statement on how Australia could develop a pilot fund that re-thinks our approach on this important issue and sets a global example in tackling the AMR crisis,” he said
“The World Health Organisation has pointed to the possible emergence of a ‘post-antibiotic’ era in the near future, where current antibiotics will fail to be effective against even minor wounds and infections.
“If we’re going to rise to this challenge, we need to rethink how we value antimicrobials, and fully recognise the broader societal value they provide. This would encourage a more sustainable and robust R&D pipeline and ensure Australian patients have access to these life-saving medicines when they need them.”