Perception to Directly Observed Treatment Short Course among patients in Bahirdar, Ethiopia

Abstract

ABSTRACT Back ground: Tuberculosis rates in the world remain high, especially in low- and middleincome countries including Ethiopia. International tuberculosis policy generally recommends the use of directly observed treatment short course to ensure treatment adherence. Even though the country adopted it in the early nineties, its’proper implementation is questionable. An understanding of perceptions of tuberculosis patients to this strategy,directly observed treatment short-course, is important to tuberculosis control programs. Objectives:The aim of the study is to explore tuberculosis patients’ perceptions to directly observed treatment short course in Bahirdar, Ethiopia. Design: This qualitative study was conducted in Bahirdar, Ethiopia. In depth interviews and focus group discussions were conducted with patients attending directly observed treatment short course, health providers and health manager who were involved in the delivery of directly observed treatment short course in the public sectors in Bahirdar.Data were analyzed using open code software and qualitative content analysis. Results:Tuberculosis patients attending directly observed treatment short course (DOTS), health professionals and health manager predominantly focused on the negative aspects of the intervention because of different reasons such as its socioeconomic impact, its effect on school attendance and lack of health staff support. Conclusion and recommendations:The overwhelmingly negative perception of patients towards directly observed treatment short course makes it a worrisome issue. DOTS facilities should improve waiting time and ensure professional ethical practice. This should be compounded withdecentralization of the service in the community through community based DOTS. Further research to develop strategies tailored to the local context is needed.