Measuring workload for tuberculosis service provision at primary care level: a methodology.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Healthcare Management
• Infectious Disease Research

Background:

• Accurate assessment of healthcare worker workload is crucial for efficient primary care delivery.
• Understanding tuberculosis (TB) related workload is essential for resource allocation and service planning in primary care settings.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and pilot a methodology for establishing tuberculosis (TB) related workload among clinical and laboratory staff in primary care.
• To identify key factors influencing TB workload, including patient pathways and visit frequency.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a mixed-methods approach combining direct observation with checklists, time clocking, and staff interviews.
• Reviewed patient registers to gather data on activities, frequency, and patient load.
• Assessed the contribution of various factors to the overall workload.

Main Results:

• The piloted methodology effectively captured the complexities of TB-related workload in primary care.
• Identified patient pathway design and clinic visit frequency as significant workload determinants.
• Quantified the time and effort associated with specific TB diagnostic and treatment activities.

Conclusions:

• The developed methodology provides a robust framework for quantifying TB workload in primary care.
• Findings can inform resource optimization, staffing adjustments, and improved TB service delivery.
• This approach is adaptable for assessing workload in other primary care settings and for different diseases.