Psychosocial support groups for patients with multidrug-resistant tuberculosis: five years of experience

Glob Public Health. 2007;2(4):404-17. doi: 10.1080/17441690701191610.

Abstract

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.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Child
  • Drug Resistance, Multiple, Bacterial*
  • Female
  • Focus Groups
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Peru
  • Social Support*
  • Tuberculosis, Multidrug-Resistant*
  • Young Adult