Psychosocial support groups for patients with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis: five years of experience
Acha, J.; Sweetland, A.; Guerra, D.; Chalco, K.; Castillo, H.; Palacios, E.
Global public health 2(4): 404-417
2007
ISSN/ISBN: 1744-1706 PMID: 19283636 DOI: 10.1080/17441690701191610Document Number: 199712
This detailed case history traces the first 5 years of a psychosocial support group intervention aimed to improve adherence to individualized drug regimens for multidrug-resistant tuberculosis (MDR-TB) in Peru. A total of eight groups were established in metropolitan Lima and two provinces of Peru led by teams of psychiatrists and nurses. The intervention consisted of bi-monthly support groups, recreational excursions, symbolic celebrations, and periodic family workshops. Notably, of the 285 patients who participated in this intervention, only 3.5% defaulted from treatment. Details include the description of services, patient data, major psychosocial difficulties faced by this population, key challenges, and implications. Psychosocial support is a crucial component of treatment for MDR-TB in order to ensure completion of complicated treatment regimens and enable psychosocial rehabilitation after treatment.