SCOPH Committee and TurkMSIC Collaboration: Antimicrobial Resistance Combat Project
Between February and May 2024, the Public Health (SCOPH) Committee of AzerMDS and the Turkish Medical Students' Association (TurkMSIC) collaborated successfully to implement the Antimicrobial Resistance Combat Project. The primary objective of this initiative was to raise public awareness about the impact of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) on society and to promote proper antibiotic usage.
Key Phases and Activities of the Project:
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Initial Meeting and Training: The project team gathered in February to discuss the work plan and methodology. Prior to fieldwork, training sessions were organized, with Dr. Yeliz Tanrıverdi, a physician from Turkey, providing initial information about the project.
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Survey Preparation and Fieldwork: In March, field activities were conducted simultaneously in Azerbaijan and Turkey. During this period, surveys were carried out within the communities, providing participants with accurate information about antimicrobial resistance, and informational brochures were distributed to raise awareness.
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Interviews and Video Recordings: As part of the fieldwork, interviews were conducted to address common misconceptions about antimicrobial resistance. A few citizens were interviewed at the Azerbaijan Medical University’s Surgical Clinic, and the correct information was shared with the community.
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Informational Videos and Podcasts: The project also produced videos and podcasts based on activities conducted in both Azerbaijan and Turkey. Subtitles in Azerbaijani, Turkish, and English were added to videos for individuals with hearing impairments, while podcasts were created for those with visual impairments.
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Webinar and Results Presentation: At the conclusion of the project, a webinar was held by Prof. Dr. Deniz Gür, where the results of the three-month activities were discussed in detail. Questions from participants were answered, and initial and final evaluation tests were conducted. The results were analyzed and compared to assess the project's impact.
Results and Significance:
The project aimed to reach 160 participants (100 from Azerbaijan and 60 from Turkey), a goal that was successfully achieved. The final evaluation tests revealed a more than 30% increase in participants' knowledge levels. Additionally, the results were documented and shared with the public, forming the basis for further improvements in future initiatives to combat AMR.
This project stands as a significant achievement in the international collaboration efforts of AzerMDS's SCOPH committee, contributing to the global fight against antimicrobial resistance.
Sincerely,
Aytac Yusifli
Assistant, Public Health Committee
