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Workshops at IUATLD Conference Offer Quality Improvement Methods to Control TB

Key quality improvement tools and strategies that QAP and URC bilateral projects have used successfully to improve program outcomes and adherence with treatment regimens for HIV, Tuberculosis (TB), and other infectious diseases were presented in workshops at the 35th Annual Conference on Lung Health of the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease (IUATLD) held October 28-November 1, 2004 in Paris. This year’s meeting focused on the theme: “Millennium Development Goals: What is in Store for Lung Health?”

Two workshops addressed the efforts of QAP and other USAID-funded bilateral projects managed by URC to strengthen tuberculosis treatment and control in South Africa, Russia, Cambodia, and Bangladesh. The projects have implemented quality improvement tools and methods that have been shown to result in increased case detection, higher compliance with treatment regimens, and better follow-up of TB patients. In addition, the programs have been working to improve adherence with treatment regimens for HIV, TB, and other infectious diseases and are developing strategies for promoting optimal adherence among patients as antiretroviral programs are rolled out.

“Quality Improvement–A Collaborative Approach” was presented by Dr. Refiloe Matji, QAP’s Country Director for South Africa; Dr. Neeraj Kak, URC Vice President and QAP Senior Technical Advisor; and Gani Perla of the Health Systems Strengthening in Cambodia Project. The workshop presented quality improvement principles and methods that can be used to improve case management at the facility level and demonstrated use of a collaborative approach to expand improvements rapidly throughout the system.

“Improving Treatment Adherence” was given by Dr. Matji and Dr. Kak. This workshop presented strategies to improve active patient involvement in treatment and quality improvement tools to improve treatment adherence among TB and HIV patients.

Download Workshop Agenda and Workshop Presentations:

Model for Rapid Quality Improvement of Tuberculosis Services

Strategies for Improving Adherence with TB and HIV Treatment

For more information on the work that QAP and URC is doing to strengthen tuberculosis treatment and control in developing countries, contact Dr. Neeraj Kak. (Send email to nkak@urc-chs.com.)

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