Survey of diagnostic services in the private health sector of Mumbai for assessment of TB case detection.

ABSTRACT

Background: The exact burden of tuberculosis remains unknown due to the fact that there are many health care providers who continue to provide care to patients suffering from tuberculosis and remain unregulated despite the DOTs strategy being implemented on a nationwide scale. RNTCP has initiated interventions to involve these providers in case reporting protocols through Public Private Mix Projects. Results: Our study highlights the issues concerning the reporting of cases of tuberculosis seeking private care in Mumbai where there is an Act, which makes TB a notifiable disease. Conclusion: This study shows that there is a need to establish formal mechanisms for case reporting and control among all health care providers.