Programmatic management of Drug Resistant Tuberculosis (DR TB) is yet to be fully optimised. National guidelines for management of DR TB in Kenya envisage monthly reviews of patients diagnosed with the resistant strain by a qualified multidisciplinary team, at both County and sub-County service delivery levels.
TB ARC working closely with TB Coordinators in Isiolo County supported the first review of DR TB patients in Isiolo sub-County. During the review, a team comprising of the County and Sub-County TB coordinators, Pharmacist, Nutritionist, Social Worker, Directly Observed Treatment (DOT) Nurses, Laboratory Officer and TB ARC Regional Officer assessed a total of five DR TB patients.
Majority of the patients appreciated the review since they had an opportunity to share their concerns and experiences with the larger team. One patient who reported to have had nutrition issues due to lack of adequate income to sustain herself since the onset of the disease, was linked to a Social Worker and a Nutritionist who would offer further linkages to the appropriate support systems. The need to fast track approvals for existing patient support cash transfers through the NTLD-Program was highlighted during the reviews.
A clinical team reviewed the previous laboratory test results and gave professional opinions during the sitting. New samples were collected at the same review meeting and patient records were updated accordingly. Capacity building on management of DR TB was also conducted for the DOT nurses caring for the patients as they presented patient reports.
The participants appreciated the activity and made commitments to have the reviews continue in subsequent months.
