Has TB CARE I sputum transport improved access to culture services for retreatment tuberculosis patients in Zimbabwe?

TB CARE I is a sputum transport service using motorcycles

From:: Department for International Development
Published: 21 June 2018

Country:: Zimbabwe
Document Type:: Journal Article
Theme:: Health
Authors:: Timire, C, Takarinda, K, Sandy, C, Zishiri, C

Abstract

Retreatment tuberculosis (TB) patients in Zimbabwe are investigated using microscopy, Xpert® MTB/RIF and culture + drug susceptibility testing (CDST). TB CARE I, a sputum transport service using motorcycles, was introduced to transport specimens between peripheral health facilities and laboratories, including National Reference Laboratories (NRLs).

Objectives: To compare access to CDST and treatment outcomes among retreatment TB patients in facilities with and those without TB CARE I support.

This research was supported by the UK Department for International Development’s Operational Research Capacity Building Programme led by the International Union Against TB and Lung Disease (The Union)

Citation

Timire C, Takarinda K, Sandy C, Zishiri C, Kumar AM V, Harries AD. Has TB CARE I sputum transport improved access to culture services for retreatment tuberculosis patients in Zimbabwe? Public Health Action [Internet]. 2018;8(2):66–71. Available from: http://ingentaconnect.com/contentone/iuatld/pha/2018/00000008/00000002/art00007#