Compliance for Latent Tuberculosis Infection Treatment among Incoming Refugees at Jefferson Center for Refugee Health

Authors

Elizabeth Bates, Department of Family and Community Medicine, Jefferson Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PAFollow
Marc Altshuler, MD, Department of Family and Community Medicine, Jefferson Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PAFollow
Kevin Scott, MD, Jefferson Family Medical AssociatesFollow

Document Type

Poster

Publication Date

2-5-2013

Abstract

80% of active TB cases in the US originate from reactivation of Latent Tuberculosis Infection (LTBI), identifying treatment of LTBI as a public health imperative. All incoming refugees at the Jefferson Center for Refugee Health (JCRH) are screened for LTBI upon arrival. Incidence of LTBI and compliance rates were assessed using a retrospective chart review and analysis of prescription refill records. The study showed 23.1% of incoming refugees were diagnosed with LTBI. Once treatment was initiated, only 33.1% were completed, while 56.2% were lost to follow up. Nepali women showed the highest rates of adherence, while Iraqi women and Burmese men were least likely to complete treatment. This data suggests a need for novel interventions to improve compliance.

Recommended Citation

Bates, Elizabeth; Altshuler, MD, Marc; and Scott, MD, Kevin, "Compliance for Latent Tuberculosis Infection Treatment among Incoming Refugees at Jefferson Center for Refugee Health" (2013). CwiC-PH. Poster 6.
https://jdc.jefferson.edu/ph/6