Table 2 Summary of barriers and enablers for MDR TB diagnosis
Enablers | Barriers |
|---|---|
Social support | Most private facilities do not test for TB |
Isolation of MDR TB patients as advised by nurses | Failure to identify TB symptoms |
Adherence with first-line treatment | Bread winner and single parenting- especially for female patients |
Support from medical community that patient friend supported fare | Traditional healers unaware of MDR-TB |
Transportation support to TB centers | Treatment without diagnostic testing |
Referral for further testing of people considered for MDR-TB | Medical staff asking for money |
Medical staff have mechanisms for follow-up of their patients | TB clinics located close to HIV/AIDS offices may enhance stigma |
Nurse empowerment to acquire skills to be able to presume MDR-TB | Non-adherence to TB & MDR-TB treatment guidelines |
Provision of TB treatment at low cost | Health care workers lack of knowledge to presume MDR-TB |
Ability of patients to sacrifice finances or time for diagnosis and/or treatment | Lack of patient-centered mechanisms for specimen transport |
Courage and persistence from patients to seek TB health care |