A Digital Collaborative Framework for Improved Tuberculosis Treatment Adherence of Patients in Rural Settings

Abstract

Generally, treatment outcomes are known to improve due to improved medication adherence. However, the outcomes of existing adherence monitoring methods such as Direct Observation Therapy (DOT), Video Observation Therapy (VOT), and Direct/Indirect Monitoring Technology need to improve. This paper introduces the notion of a digital collaborative framework (DCF) that involves many stakeholders for personalized treatment adherence-monitoring in the treatment journey of a patient. The framework is conceived to strengthen the collaboration of multiple stakeholders in monitoring adherence to Tuberculosis (TB) treatment. The stakeholders include Healthcare workers (HCW), family, and friends who are able to support the patients on TB treatment for positive adherence behaviour. To do this, a wearable outdoor, and waterproof smartwatch paired with the smartphone of the TB patient via Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) connectivity. This is then combined with a mobile app service are to realize a DCF. The framework will enable real-time data collection and analytics to stimulate differentiated monitoring of individual TB patients for TB treatment adherence. The applicability of the DCF is highlighted by using a sample use case and a response scenario.