Readiness of the Tuberculosis Control Program for Community-Based Management of Multidrug/Rifampin- Resistant Tuberculosis in Sierra Leone: A mixed-methods study
This study assesses Sierra Leone's readiness for community-based management of multidrug-resistant (MDR) and rifampin-resistant tuberculosis (RR-TB). Conducted across eight districts, the mixed-methods approach integrates a validated readiness assessment tool (quantitative) with qualitative data from interviews and focus groups involving healthcare workers and patients. By evaluating infrastructure, healthcare providers' perspectives, and patient experiences, the study aims to identify barriers and facilitators for decentralized MDR/RR-TB care. This research is essential to inform policy development, ensuring more accessible, patient-centered, and sustainable TB care in Sierra Leone's diverse settings
Photos and reflections on the thesis project
Students submitted photos and reflections as part of their thesis research. All the people in the photos gave permission for their photos to be taken and shared.
The CHWs at Teko Barracks CHC were very pleased to be included in a survey. It serves as a form of recognition for them and in a way, an appreciation of their work. After going for several months without pay, they were happy to be recognized.
A photo of me discussing consent with an MDR TB patient outside his family home in Makeni. He was very quiet and at first not very chatty. A lot of probing was needed to get him to talk more and relax during his interview
An MDRTB patient that wanted us to sit under the trees in his neighbor's compound. He was very polite and pleasant.