RESUMEN
OBJECTIVE: Develop, implement and evaluate a form of community involvement in TB care in three rural health districts (DS). METHODS: Profiles of community representatives were identified within the therapeutic itineraries of TB patients (PATB). Community contributions have been made in a specific context via a committee of community resource persons. The results of patients' care and management were compared over time (2005 to 2007) and space (comparison made with 3 other DS controls). RESULTS: The multifaceted community interventions (material and psycho-social support to patients) have been integrated into the regular management plan for PATB. In the first 12 months, the detection and cure rates have increased significantly in the intervention area, before stabilizing over the course of the following 12 months. CONCLUSION: Community involvement in care can strengthen the capacity of health services to respond and meet the expectations of PATB, including for those with chronic diseases. It requires a coherent distribution of tasks amongst all actors and stakeholders and balance of power relationships between different contributors to care.
