Introduction:
The National Tuberculosis Elimination Programme (NTEP) is dedicated to intensifying endeavors to end Tuberculosis in India. It provides comprehensive TB care services, fully aligned with the objectives outlined in the National Strategic Plan spanning from 2017 to 2025.1 Training Health Volunteers is essential in addressing misconceptions, effectively engage community, and increase community involvement in the fight against TB.2 The NTEP has created the ‘course for Health volunteers and Treatment supporters on NTEP’ through Modernize Training System (MTS).
Problem:
Tamil Nadu Has identified Women Health Volunteers who are helping in the fight against Tuberculosis (TB).3 Their contributions include identifying TB cases, directing individuals suspected of having TB for testing, offering assistance in treatment to patients, and managing adherence to treatment plans. Additionally, they actively contribute to combating stigma and discrimination faced by TB patients within the community. They also play crucial role in all other health programs and activities including HIV and other health activities under primary health care.4
Reaching to a large number of health volunteers in short span of time for training is difficult and Also, Health volunteers need to be taught in their regional language and in a culturally appropriate manner. Evidence suggests that training program in Tamil for TB health volunteers is instrumental in fostering effective communication, community engagement, cultural sensitivity, and overall program success in Tamil Nadu.
Intervention:
Tamil Nadu state has decided to translate the NTEP approved ‘Course for Health volunteers and Treatment supporters on NTEP’ and train all the health volunteers using the modernized training system.
1.RNTCP. National Strategic Plan for tuberculosis elimination. 2017
2.Government of Tamil Nadu. Tamil Nadu State Health Policy Vision 2030 “A promise towards Right to Health.” 2022
3.Knowledge base NTEP. Trainers Guide: Course for Health Volunteers on NTEP | Knowledge Base [Internet]. 2022 [cited 2024 Jan 16]. Available from: https://ntep.in/node/3557/revisions/12956/view
4. National TB Elimination Program. Tamil Nadu-National Tb Elimination Program Tamil Nadu-National TB Elimination Program Best Practices followed during the COVID 19 Pandemic. 2021.
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