Vancouver-based health technology company Firstline has partnered with the World Health Organization (WHO) to make the AWaRe antibiotic prescribing guidance freely available worldwide through its app and web platform. The initiative aims to help healthcare providers across the globe make informed antibiotic prescribing decisions, combating the growing threat of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

The AWaRe guidance categorizes antibiotics into three groups—Access, Watch, and Reserve—providing clinicians with clear recommendations to ensure effective treatments while reducing the risk of resistance. By integrating this framework into its digital platform, Firstline will enable doctors, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals to instantly access reliable prescribing information at the point of care, no matter where they are located.

In addition to its global partnership with WHO, Firstline is also working within Canada to support the rollout of the country’s first national AMR guidelines. These guidelines will be available directly through the Firstline platform, giving Canadian healthcare providers an easy-to-use tool for evidence-based decision-making in clinical settings.

Antimicrobial resistance is considered one of the top public health threats of the 21st century, with the potential to render common infections untreatable. According to WHO, improper or excessive use of antibiotics is a major driver of resistance. By increasing accessibility to trusted prescribing guidance, initiatives like Firstline’s partnership could play a crucial role in slowing the spread of resistant infections.

Healthcare professionals worldwide can access the AWaRe guidance immediately through the Firstline app or website at no cost. This collaboration represents a significant step forward in ensuring that life-saving medications remain effective for generations to come.