Systems Policy Analysis for Antimicrobial Resistance Targeted Action (SPAARTA): A Research Protocol

Abstract

Background The majority of countries (64%) have an Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) National Action Plan (NAP V.1.0), but many remain unimplemented, and lack funding for interventions. Intervention selection requires a systematic approach to explain and predict progress. Looking beyond AMR is important to ensure the capture of systemic factors at the country level, which can impede or accelerate success. Aim To provide innovative policy analysis to allow country comparison and refine targeted action, while developing and implementing NAPs (V.2.0). Methods Mixed-method multi-country case study of policies and implementation strategies to address AMR across One Health. Starting with 17 countries, the sample includes each WHO region and emerging economies. This investigation of structures, processes, and outcomes has three components: a. Textual analysis of peer-reviewed literature, policy documents, global and national progress reports, validated by global and in-country experts. An all-language article search conducted for 2000-2024, using broad search terms: ‘Antimicrobial resistance policies’, ‘national action plan’, ‘surveillance’, ‘AMR systems’ supplemented by hand searches. Deductive analysis using multi-disciplinary frameworks including the Expert Consensus for Implementation Research (ERIC). b. Longitudinal quantitative analysis assessing country contextual determinants and Antimicrobial Use (AMU) and AMR outcomes. Data from global health indicator repositories and international and national AMU and AMR surveillance networks are analysed using econometrics and machine learning approaches. c. Interactive Tableau dashboard development to display insights from a & b to allow visualisation and comparison of case-country AMR intervention context and components. Discussion This protocol provides a systematic, transparent approach for countries to benchmark their own AMR strategies. The interactive dashboard will allow comparisons between country clusters by geography or economy, and enable rapid knowledge mobilisation among strategic and operational stakeholders including policy makers and planners. This protocol facilitates others to perform this structured assessment and nominate their country for the next wave of analysis.