Using AMR data for policy-making

Introduction

A policy is defined as:

‘Policy-maker’ is a broad term that covers all the people responsible for formulating or amending policy. Policy-makers may consult academics, clinicians and veterinarians (among others), and these professionals can in turn approach policy-makers during the policy-making process. Policy-makers are often time-poor, and tend to be generalists, but it is important not to underestimate their skills and experience – particularly when it comes to understanding complex issues and assimilating knowledge (NCCPE, n.d.).

The global coronavirus pandemic is expected to significantly alter the global infectious diseases landscape and conversation, even after it has passed. There is a clear need to rethink how to position the antimicrobial resistance (AMR) agenda in order to take an active role in shaping this new global environment, and clearly communicate this to the broader audience of policy-makers looking at more general health security and pandemic preparedness (Wellcome Trust, 2020). In this module you will cover the skills needed to take an active role in the policy-making process.

After completing this module, you will be able to:

• understand how AMR data can influence policy-making
• identify the relevant policy-makers and their roles
• use an engaging and accessible writing style for people who have major time constraints and who are not subject matter experts
• effectively deliver science advice to policy-makers
• recognise barriers to policy-making and how to overcome them.