Tuberculosis Diagnostic Committees' contribution to the National TB Program in Manila and Quezon Cities.

ABSTRACT

SETTING: The Philippines Tuberculosis Diagnostic Committees (TBDCs) were created to improve the quality of diagnosis of sputum smear-negative chest radiography suggestive of pulmonary tuberculosis (sn-PTB). OBJECTIVE: To determine current TBDC activities, obstacles and possible solutions for improvements in the quality of diagnosis of sn-PTB in Manila City and Quezon City. DESIGN: A descriptive review of TBDC Masterlist records and interviews with TBDC members using a semi-structured questionnaire. RESULTS: A record review of nine of 10 TBDCs was conducted, with interviews of 33 of the 49 current members. During the second and third quarters of 2009, respectively 1142 and 1563 sn-PTB cases were evaluated by the TBDCs in both cities. Of these, 53% in Manila City and 65% in Quezon City were classified as active TB patients. There were significant variations in the percentage of patients recommended for anti-tuberculosis treatment by the TBDC. The participation of its members is based on their expressed commitment to program sustainability. CONCLUSION: TBDC activities contribute to TB control in the Philippines by ensuring the judicious use of resources. Further research to assess the contributions of TBDCs in reducing diagnostic and treatment delays, and factors affecting the sustainability of the TBDCs, is recommended.