The Caribbean region has achieved significant progress in combating antimicrobial resistance (AMR) through the support of the Fleming Fund, demonstrating the value of regional collaboration, laboratory strengthening, and workforce development. Over the past year, participating countries have enhanced their ability to generate reliable AMR data, improving both clinical decision-making and national surveillance systems. These advancements have been driven by targeted investments, technical support, and the dedication of laboratory professionals across the region.
Across nine Caribbean countries, laboratory capacity has expanded considerably. Twenty-two laboratories underwent assessments, while fourteen laboratories actively conducted Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (AST), processing approximately 125,000 samples during the year. This increased testing capacity has strengthened the region’s ability to detect antimicrobial resistance trends and support more effective patient treatment and public health responses.
Workforce development has been a key component of the initiative’s success. More than 238 healthcare and laboratory professionals received training through both virtual and in-person programs. Additionally, the regional reference laboratory in Barbados significantly enhanced its technical expertise, with staff receiving advanced training in whole genome sequencing and bioinformatics. These investments have created lasting regional expertise that will continue to support AMR monitoring and research in the future.
Digital transformation has further strengthened surveillance efforts. Fourteen laboratories have implemented Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) platforms, while seven countries now use WHONET for antimicrobial resistance data management. Three countries have already begun reporting data to the Global Antimicrobial Resistance and Use Surveillance System (GLASS), improving regional and global monitoring of resistance patterns and supporting evidence-based health policies.
Quality assurance systems have also advanced substantially. Ten laboratories are now participating in the Regional Laboratory Network for Antimicrobial Resistance in Latin America and the Caribbean External Quality Assessment program, while all participating laboratories have adopted internal quality control measures. Furthermore, a network of trained specialists is now available to assist countries with outbreak investigations and AMR-related emergencies, improving preparedness across the region.
Sustainability has emerged as one of the project’s most important achievements. Essential diagnostic supplies have been incorporated into the PAHO Strategic Fund catalogue, enabling countries to access critical resources through more efficient procurement mechanisms. Seventeen sites have already benefited from these improvements, helping ensure that laboratory gains can be maintained beyond the project period.
