Community treatment supporters make difference

Despite progress in addressing tuberculosis in PNG, current actions and investments still fall far short of what is needed.

The rate of new TB diseases in PNG is still the highest in the Western Pacific Region and the 10th highest in the world says WHO country representative, Dr Luo Dapeng.

The country’s has a sound National Strategic Plan 2015 – 2020 focusing on the quality of services and engagement of the community and LLG in TB control activities.

The government even entered into partnership with technical organisations and donor communities.

But drug resistance TB is still on the rise, placing extra pressure on the health services, driving the cost of treatment more than 100 times and increasing the complexity of care.

An emergency was declared in hotspot areas through the country with al partners establishing an emergency response team (ERT) led by the National Department of Health.

NCD developed its TB plan last year and has initiated new programmes, strengthening its diagnostic and treatment in health centres.

This involved community treatment supporters through three partner organisations to raise awareness, assist in early diagnosis and follow on daily treatment.

WHO believes this is the beginning of Ending TB in NCD.

Dr Dapeng pledged WHO’s support to NDoH, monitor the progress of the work to end TB, provide technical assistance and guidance.

Author: 
Gloria Bauai