Modeling and analysis of barriers in controlling TB: developing countries' perspective

PurposeTuberculosis (TB) continues to c-exist with humans despite many TB control programs and elimination strategies. This depicts that some barriers are not allowing achieving the desired results. The current study aims to focus on identification and ranking of such barriers to facilitate TB control programs in developing countries.Design/methodology/approachIn the present study, 13 barriers that can influence success rate of TB elimination strategies have been recognized with an in-depth assessment of related literature and opinions of specialists from medical industry and academic world. The interpretive structural modeling (ISM) and decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) techniques have been employed for the ranking of barriers.FindingsBased on driving power of barriers, the study coined that underinvestment is a major barrier followed by poor implementation of government policies and programs, poverty and poor primary health care infrastructure.Research limitations/implicationsThe findings may guide healthcare service providers and researchers in analyzing the barriers and understanding the necessity of further advancements to decrease the count of already existing and incident cases.Practical implicationsPolicy- and decision-makers may utilize the information on dependence and driving power of barriers for better planning and effective execution of TB control strategies.Originality/valueAlthough a lot of literature is available on different barriers that are affecting success of TB strategies, the current study analyzes all the key barriers collectively for the prioritization of barriers.