Patient-Centric Care in Tuberculosis Management: Addressing Challenges and Improving Health Outcomes

Abstract

The WHO's End TB Strategy prioritizes Patient-Centered Care as its primary pillar. This chapter focuses on the Indian Health Care System's implementation of patient-centric care, emphasizing the patient's pivotal role in receiving quality service and quality care. Healthcare workers under this model deliver competent tuberculosis care, aiming to meet patients' needs and provide support throughout their treatment journey. Enhancements in patient-centric care encompass improved TB diagnosis, treatment adherence, and follow-up management. The research findings show enhanced patient-physician relationships and healthcare worker capabilities. Increased medication adherence and reduced patient loss to follow-up contribute to better treatment outcomes. The chapter also addresses arranging nutritional aid for the underprivileged, providing psycho-social and socioeconomic support, and educating affected TB patients about the disease, all within the scope of TB awareness efforts.