CAMO-Net Timor-Leste has launched the first phase of a project to introduce Therapeutic Drug Monitoring (TDM) for key antibiotics. The initiative is being delivered by the Menzies School of Health Research in partnership with Universidade da Paz (UNPAZ).
This important milestone marks a step forward in supporting the responsible use of antibiotics and strengthening antimicrobial stewardship across the country. The initiative is being delivered in close collaboration with five referral hospitals – including Hospital Nacional Guido Valadares (HNGV), HOREX Baucau, RAEOA Referral Hospital, and referral hospitals in Maubisse, Maliana and Suai.
The first awareness-raising activity – known locally as a “socialisation session” – was held in Oecusse. Led by Menzies researcher Agata do Espírito Santo Soares, the session featured a presentation on: “Describing glycopeptide and aminoglycoside use, indications, and patient outcomes across Timor-Leste’s national and referral hospitals, and optimising glycopeptide use through the introduction of vancomycin level testing in the National Laboratory.”
Eighteen participants from a range of professional backgrounds joined the discussion, exploring how TDM could help improve the effectiveness of antibiotic treatments and limit the development of resistance.
Next, the team travelled to Baucau, where Menzies researcher Guilherme Ximenes Soares – supported by a research nurse and colleagues – delivered the same presentation. The event drew 33 attendees from across the clinical and health sectors, creating space for insightful dialogue on antibiotic use and resistance.
In Maliana, the session was led by the dedicated Menzies team and attracted 50 participants, including doctors and pharmacists. The interactive format encouraged rich knowledge-sharing and reflections on how TDM could improve patient outcomes.
A high turnout followed at Hospital Nacional Guido Valadares (HNGV), where 77 healthcare professionals took part. As in earlier sessions, the event focused on optimising antibiotic use through improved monitoring, while also building awareness and fostering cross-disciplinary collaboration.
Further engagement came from Suai Referral Hospital, where 19 participants joined the discussion. The session continued to highlight the value of TDM in strengthening clinical practice at the referral level.
The final stop in this first phase was Maubisse. Here, 35 healthcare professionals gathered to consider the implications of TDM on antibiotic use and patient care within Timor-Leste’s health system. Like previous sessions, the event promoted active dialogue and shared commitment to better antimicrobial use.
With the successful completion of phase one, the project team is encouraged by the widespread engagement from health professionals across the country. These early steps provide a strong foundation for advancing antimicrobial optimisation in Timor-Leste, with momentum building for the work still to come.
