A comparative analysis of the profile and treatment outcomes of tuberculosis patients managed at the community and primary health care facilities in Botswana

Background

Successful treatment of Tuberculosis (TB) is necessary for mitigating and averting millions of deaths annually. This study compared the profiles and measured the association between patients, health system-related factors, and TB treatment outcomes of patients managed through the community tuberculosis care model with those managed in primary health care settings.

Methods

A retrospective multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted in six districts in Botswana. Patient’s records were reviewed using a data extraction sheet, and data not captured on registers were obtained using a structured questionnaire.

Results

Three hundred and twenty-four TB patients were sampled. Most participants (84 %; n = 273) were receiving community-based DOT. Patients with moderate TB knowledge (OR 5.3,955 CI 1.01–27.7), good perception of TB care (OR 11, 95 % CI 1.29–94.0), were more likely to enroll for community DOT and achieve treatment cure. Those in businesses (OR 3.85 95 %CI 1.10–22.6), always had treatment available (OR 3.66, 95 % CI 1.12–11.4), never drank alcohol (OR 2.11, 95 %CI 1.06–4.19), used their vehicle (OR 2.11.95 %CI 0.99–4.48) were likely to enroll for community DOT.

Conclusion

A patient-specific education program and continuous improvement practices to increase patient TB knowledge and satisfaction should be implemented at all levels to improve treatment outcomes.