Promoting sustainable national action to tackle antimicrobial resistance: a proposal to develop an antimicrobial resistance accountability index

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a significant public health crisis, causing 1-14 million deaths globally in 2021. If not addressed, it could cost the global economy $412 billion annually due to increased healthcare costs and $443 billion lost workforce productivity. Despite efforts, countries are inconsistent in implementing recommended policies, such as stewardship of antimicrobials, infection prevention, public awareness, and investment in research. Factors influencing inconsistency include differences in resources, political commitment, healthcare infrastructure, and public health priorities. Countries like Sweden, the Netherlands, and the UK have best practices, implementing policies with measurable goals, robust monitoring, and well-defined accountability mechanisms.