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Published on: August 16, 2021
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Tele-TB: Using TeleMedicine to Increase Access to Directly Observed Therapy for Latent Tuberculosis Infection
Megan L Donahue1, Matthew D Eberly2, Michael Rajnik2
1Department of Pediatrics, Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, Bethesda, MD 20889, USA.
Military Medicine
|January 27, 2021
Summary
Telemedicine directly observed therapy (DOT) for latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) offers a viable alternative to in-person visits. This approach ensures high treatment compliance and completion rates while saving time for patients and minimizing daily life interruptions.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
- Telemedicine
Background:
- Latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) treatment is crucial to prevent active disease.
- Traditional treatment regimens for LTBI include daily isoniazid or 12-week directly observed therapy (DOT).
- In-person DOT presents challenges, particularly for patients with long travel times to clinics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the feasibility and effectiveness of TeleMedicine LTBI DOT (vDOT) in a military pediatric infectious diseases clinic.
- To improve access to LTBI treatment for patients facing geographical and logistical barriers.
Main Methods:
- Implemented weekly vDOT for patients diagnosed with LTBI.
- Patients received initial in-person consultation for treatment options and vDOT setup.
- Offered weekly vDOT or daily oral treatment (isoniazid or rifampin) to eligible patients.
Main Results:
- 16 patients completed LTBI therapy via vDOT.
- Average one-way travel time to the clinic was 51 minutes.
- vDOT encounters averaged under 10 minutes, with 100% treatment compliance and completion.
Conclusions:
- Telemedicine DOT is a viable and time-saving method for LTBI treatment.
- vDOT facilitates high patient compliance and treatment completion.
- This approach minimizes interruptions to patients' academic and work schedules.
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