The demand for universal and fair healthcare coverage

• Expansion of molecular testing for rapid TB detection and drug-resistance.

• Introduction of shorter, all-oral BPaLM regimen.

• Doubled entitlement under Ni-kshay Poshan Yojana for nutrition support.

• Roll-out of TB preventive therapy.

• Expanded role for communities through involvement of TB survivors and Champions.

• 17.7% decline in TB incidence in India from 2015 to 2023.

• 21.4% reduction in TB-related deaths.

Decentralising TB Care for All

• Ayushman Bharat National Health Protection Scheme launched in 2018 to provide UHC for the Indian population.

• TB has been integrated within the Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (AB-PMJAY) and the Ayushman Arogya Mandirs (AAMs).

• Integration of TB services at the AAM primary care level to provide high-quality services at the first point of contact.

• Strengthening referrals from the private to the public health system.

• Ensuring full insurance coverage for those seeking care for TB in the private or public sector.

Equitable and Decentralised Care for All

• Five key steps to accelerate progress towards TB elimination and universal health coverage (UHC).

TB Care in India: Strengthening Person-Centered Approaches and Developing Intersectional Mechanisms

• Strengthening person-centred care approaches is crucial for achieving Universal Health Coverage (UHC).

• Model interventions like the Tamil Nadu Kasanoi Erappila Thittam (TNKET) have reduced TB mortality by identifying and referring the most vulnerable or sick.

• Investment in traditional health inputs like human resources, supplies, and infrastructure is essential for TB elimination and universal health coverage.

• Recognizing intersectionalities, such as gender, age, caste, disability, socio-economic status, and occupation, is essential for equitable care.

• Integrated care remains a challenge for India’s health system, with challenges in testing for TB symptoms, screening for depression or hypertension, and linking to appropriate services.

• UHC approaches aim to minimize Out-of-pocket Payment (OOPE) and eliminate health-related debt.

• Future actions include expanding social protection, piloting wage-loss schemes, and introducing livelihood programs for TB survivors.

• Equity in access to information and knowledge is critical for TB, with similar approaches needed to encourage care and reduce transmission.

• Deciding TB stigma is crucial for early detection and successful treatment outcomes.

• An equitable TB programmed ensures every individual receives the highest quality of person-centered care, accelerating progress towards TB elimination and universal health coverage.