The economic impact and role of health communication in the economic recovery of tuberculosis (TB) patients in Indonesia

Abstract

Tuberculosis (TB) patients suffer physically and bear the economic burden as many patients cannot work or generate income when ill. Concerning this issue, health communication plays a role in addressing the economic impact through advocacy strategies. This study aims to analyze how the economic impact and health communication advocacy conducted by Aisyiyah and Terjang NGOs contribute to TB patients' economic recovery in Bandung. This research adopts a cross-sectional approach involving data collection at a specific point in time. The findings indicate that the average percentage of patients who are the primary breadwinners of the family is 44.33%, patients who have lost their jobs is 82.33%, patients with loans is 38.67%, patients selling property is 55.67%, patients receiving government assistance is 68.33%, patients receiving assistance from private institutions is 21%, patients receiving assistance from family is 78%, and the median value of aid in the last three months is 21.83 USD. Aisyiyah and Terjang provide information on treatment costs, skills training, access to social support programs, and awareness of stigma and discrimination among TB patients. Terjang also provides legal assistance to patients who experience discrimination. This health communication advocacy can enhance social and economic support for TB patients and their families.