Imagining a 360° and complete TB treatment response
• Rani, a TB patient in India, underwent a sputum test for TB, which confirmed it was drugsensitive.
• The doctor advised her to follow a protein-rich diet, test for diabetes and HIV, and get her family tested for TB.
• Rani was given time off work and began a daily medicine regimen until she was cured.
• Rani’s journey exemplifies the ideal care pathway for TB care in India.
• The journey of Rani highlights the complexity of TB, including stigma, loneliness, and self-blame.
• TB is a disease that disrupts social networks and economic progress, but cannot be cured by medicines alone.
• TB is a complex disease impacting physical and mental health, with stigma, loneliness, and self-blame common factors.
• TB also leads to insularity and persistent apathy, driven by the notion that it is a disease of the poor.
• The most critical aspect of TB care is a resilient public health system, dedicated human resources, uninterrupted supply of commodities and drugs, and the ability to transition from ‘one-size-fits-all’ care to person-centered care.
• The most efficient health sector cannot end TB by itself, but requires multisectoral action.
• More champions who can say they had TB and motivate other people with TB are needed.
• TB needs to be integrated within social and private insurance schemes.
• Corporate India must prioritize TB control and be more open to investing corporate social responsibility resources.
• Viable social business models for TB care that transcend public-private partnerships are needed.