Is chest camp intervention effective and feasible for enhanced TB case finding in Punjab, Pakistan.

Is chest camp intervention effective and feasible for enhanced TB case finding in Punjab, Pakistan.

This ongoing study is done in partnership with National TB Control Programme, Pakistan. This Intervention was implemented by The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria (GFATM).

Background and Objectives: End TB strategy (WHO) emphasizes ‘reaching the unreached’ patients. In Pakistan, about 31% of the estimated TB cases are currently not detected/ notified. Chest camp intervention is currently being implemented for reaching the unreached in poor urban localities. A process evaluation was conducted to assess the fidelity and feasibility of chest camp; also inform the need of further modifications (if any).

Methods: The study in four selected districts employed a sequential mixed methods design. The records of 24 chest camps conducted during 2017 were included for quantitative data; whereas 4 project staff, 4 notables, 4 male and 4 female TB patients were interviewed for qualitative data.

Findings: Each chest camp event was: a) preceded by a meeting of around 12 notables and gathering of about 50 community members; and b) attended by a doctor, a paramedic staff, and a laboratory staff. The chest camp was 4 – 6 hour event with an average of: 60 attendees; 12 with TB symptom; 1.4 smear-positive TB patients; and 0.4 smear-negative patients. The chest camp costed around USD:280, including USD:120 for the pre-camp mobilization events. A significantly high proportion of attendees without TB symptoms (80%); low proportion of smear-negative case registration; and relatively high unit cost (per patient detected) were the areas identified for further attention.

Conclusion: The study supports the continuation of chest camp activity, with further attention to the quality and efficiency concerns.