TB/ HIV coordination through Public Private Partnership: lessons from the field.

BACKGROUND: Co-infection with tuberculosis adversely affects the quality of life of HIV infected individuals and additionally, HIV testing among TB patients gives an opportunity for prevention and treatment of HIV infection. TB-HIV coordination activities are therefore a good public health intervention.
METHODS: It was a three-year Public Private Partnership Project, implemented in four districts of Maharashtra, to improve access to public health facilities through community awareness and motivating referrals. Outreach workers were engaged to motivate patients attending Integrated Counselling and Testing Centres (ICTCs) and Designated Microscopy Centres (DMCs) for cross referrals and adherence to services. Community leaders and private health providers were sensitized to issues around TB and HIV/AIDS. OBSERVATIONS: 357 outreach workers referred 17,200 individuals for HIV testing and 32,549 TB suspects were referred for testing. An average of 18% TB cases (13% to 26%) and 7% (4% to 13%) HIV infected cases were identified. Involvement of PLHA and cured TB patients can better motivate symptomatics to avail of diagnostic services. Erratic funding affects smooth implementation of programmes.
CONCLUSION: Public Private Partnerships improve access to care. Constant dialogue between all stake holders is essential for successful implementation of such partnerships.