On 18th March 2025, the National Veterinary Hospital (NVH) hosted a delegation of Fleming Fund mentors from the Doherty Institute, University of Melbourne. The visit aimed to strengthen collaboration and provide guidance on antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) and antimicrobial use (AMU) in veterinary practice.
The meeting commenced with a warm welcome by Dr. Jambay Dorji, the officiating Veterinary Superintendent of NVH, who expressed gratitude for the mentors’ visit and highlighted the importance of their expertise in advancing AMS initiatives.
Dr. Nima Wangdi, the AMS focal person at NVH, delivered a comprehensive presentation outlining the chronology of NVH’s establishment, the range of services provided, and the background and development of the AMS unit at the hospital. His presentation set the stage for a deeper understanding of NVH’s efforts in promoting responsible antimicrobial use.
Following the presentation, the mentors engaged in a productive discussion, offering valuable recommendations to enhance AMS practices and address challenges in antimicrobial use. Their insights were greatly appreciated and will be instrumental in refining NVH’s approach to AMS.
Dr. Tenzin Wangchuk, the AMU fellow, provided a brief update on the progress of his work plan and proposed fund support for establishing culture and sensitivity testing (CST) at the NVH laboratory. This initiative aims to improve diagnostic capabilities and support evidence-based treatment decisions.
The meeting also included a detailed discussion on antimicrobial use and treatment regimens across different animal species, highlighting the need for comprehensive guidelines and continuous monitoring.
The session concluded with a guided tour of the hospital facilities, led by NVH veterinarians, allowing the mentors to observe the hospital’s operations firsthand.
The visit was a significant step forward in fostering collaboration between NVH and the Doherty Institute, and the recommendations provided will greatly contribute to advancing antimicrobial stewardship in veterinary practice in Bhutan.
