A New Method to Directly Observe Tuberculosis Treatment: Skype Observed Therapy, a Patient-Centered Approach.
Tuberculosis (TB) treatment completion is in part determined by patient's adherence to long-term drug regimens. To best ensure compliance, directly observed therapy (DOT) is considered the standard of practice. Nassau County Department of Health TB Control is responsible for providing DOT to patients with TB.



Tuberculosis Control sought to use and evaluate Skype Observed Therapy (SOT) as an alternative to DOT for eligible patients.



The evaluation included analysis of patient's acceptance and adherence to drug regimen using SOT. Tuberculosis Control assessed staff efficiency and cost savings for this program.



Percentages of SOT of patients and successful SOT visits, mileage, and travel time savings.



Twenty percent of the caseload used SOT and 100% of patients who were eligible opted in. Average SOT success was 79%. Total mileage savings and time saved were $9,929.07 and 614 hours.



Because SOT saves cost and time and is a suitable alternative to DOT for patients, it should be considered as part of new policies and practices in TB control programs.
Nassau County Department of Health, Mineola, New York.
Tavora
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Buchman
Celina
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Cabello
D000995:Antitubercular Agents / Q000191:economics / Q000627:therapeutic use; D003142:Communication; D023801:Directly Observed Therapy / Q000191:economics / Q000379:methods* / Q000592:standards*; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet / Q000295:instrumentation; D009518:New York; D018802:Patient-Centered Care / Q000191:economics / Q000379:methods / Q000592:standards; D014376:Tuberculosis / Q000188:drug therapy*; D016903:Drug Monitoring
D000995:Antitubercular Agents