Tuberculosis screening and compliance with return for skin test reading among active drug users

C.K. Malotte, F. Rhodes and K.E. Mais

American Journal of Public Health, 1998, vol. 88, issue 5, 792-796

Abstract: Objectives. This study assessed the independent and combined effects of different levels of monetary incentives and a theory-based educational intervention on return for tuberculosis (TB) skin test reading in a sample of active injection drug and crack cocaine users. Prevalence of TB infection in this sample was also determined. Methods. Active or recent drug users (n = 1004), recruited via street outreach techniques, were skin tested for TB. They were randomly assigned to 1 and 2 levels of monetary incentive ($5 and $10) provided at return for skin test reading, alone or in combination with a brief motivational education session. Results. More than 90% of those who received $10 returned for skin test reading, in comparison with 85% of those who received $5 and 33% of those who received no monetary incentive. The education session had no impact on return for skin test reading. The prevalence of a positive tuberculin test was 18.3%. Conclusions. Monetary incentives dramatically increase the return rate for TB skin test reading among drug users who are at high risk of TB infection.

Date: 1998
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:aph:ajpbhl:1998:88:5:792-796_2

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