In Jamaica’s National Laboratory Services, microbiologists Rudaine Francis and Christine Ehikhamenor play a crucial role in supporting clinical decision-making and patient recovery. As a Senior Medical Technologist and a Genomic Sequencing Consultant respectively, they are routinely exposed to multidrug-resistant organisms through the identification of bacteria from clinical samples. Using predominantly manual methods, they analyse phenotypic expressions of drug resistance and share these findings with clinicians to inform treatment decisions.
Before engaging in the PAHO/WHO - UK Fleming Fund initiative, both professionals acknowledged major gaps that affected the laboratory’s ability to fully support antimicrobial resistance (AMR) detection and response. They highlighted three main challenges: an incomplete range of diagnostic tests necessary for comprehensive AMR-related patient care; a need for additional training to enhance technical capacity; and a requirement for support in refining existing workflows to improve testing efficiency. These limitations had an impact on surveillance capabilities and reduced confidence in laboratory reporting.
Advancing Capability Through Training and Technology Transfer
Their involvement in the Fleming Fund-supported initiative came as Jamaica sought to strengthen national AMR surveillance capacity. As part of the programme, they engaged in training on molecular detection and surveillance of antimicrobial resistance within the Caribbean, as well as AMR surveillance and response using genomics and new technologies. They described these sessions as “informative and enlightening” and emphasised the value of gaining greater insight into evolving best practices across the region.
Looking ahead, Jamaica’s national laboratory is preparing to integrate the MALDI Biotyper from Bruker, a technological upgrade expected to improve accuracy and efficiency in bacterial identification once implemented. The team also plans to develop a recommended workflow that combines advanced phenotypic testing (such as Carba 5, Carba-R, VITEK and MALDI-TOF) with genomic sequencing through MiSeq technology. Together, these advancements are expected to improve diagnostic confidence, enhance treatment guidance and support more effective AMR surveillance, ultimately contributing to reduced morbidity and mortality.
Building Jamaica’s AMR Future
When asked about next steps, Rudaine and Christine emphasised the importance of establishing a national AMR framework to guide the development of a comprehensive surveillance and reporting system. They noted that future progress would be best supported by continued access to equipment that strengthens testing capabilities, replication of successful regional trainings held in Barbados and Trinidad and Tobago, expanded bioinformatics capacity and technical support to advance overall programme implementation.
Reflecting on the wider impact, they shared: “This programme is improving AMR surveillance and testing capacity throughout the Caribbean and plays an important part in highlighting new and improved testing methods and advancements.”
Their journey demonstrates how investment in laboratory strengthening directly contributes to better patient care. By empowering laboratory professionals with new tools, training and systems, the Fleming Fund initiative is supporting Jamaica’s ability to respond proactively to drug-resistant threats and protect the health of its communities.