A novel approach to directly observed therapy for tuberculosis in an HIV-endemic area

M. Desvarieux, P.-R. Hyppolite, Johnson W.D., Jr. and J.W. Pape

American Journal of Public Health, 2001, vol. 91, issue 1, 138-141

Abstract: Objectives. This study evaluated a novel approach to the delivery of directly observed therapy (DOT) for tuberculosis in Haiti. Methods. A total of 194 patients (152 HIV seropositive, 42 HIV seronegative) received daily unsupervised triple-drug therapy for 4 to 8 weeks, followed by twice-weekly 2-drug therapy for the remainder of the 6-month period. DOT was deferred until initiation of the twice-weekly phase. Results. A total of 169 of 194 patients (87.1%) completed the 6-month course. The program of deferred DOT had an effectiveness of 85%. Overall cost was reduced by approximately 40%. Conclusions. Flexible approaches to DOT, integrating behavioral knowledge, cost considerations, and practicality may improve completion rates and program effectiveness.

Date: 2001
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:aph:ajpbhl:2001:91:1:138-141_1

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