Tuberculosis prescription practices in private and public sector in India.

ABSTRACT

Introduction: India has the highest burden of tuberculosis in world, accounting for 20% of global incidence of TB (Tuberculosis). TB treatment is available both in private and public sector in India. Aim & objectives: The current study was carried out to study and compare the prescribing practices of anti-tuberculosis medications by private practitioners and healthcare providers in public sector (under RNTCP-Revised National Tuberculosis Control Programme). Material and Methods: 105 anti TB prescriptions of private practitioners and 105 RNTCP (Revised National Tuberculosis Programme) treatment cards were analysed. Results: 9.52% prescriptions by private practitioners and 4.76 % RNTCP prescriptions were correct. Factors for drug resistance were present in 67.62 % of prescriptions by private practitioners and 28.57 % of RNTCP prescriptions whereas overdosing was present in 53.33 % of prescriptions by private practitioners and 68.57 % of RNTCP prescriptions. Conclusion: The anti TB treatment offered in private and public sector in India is not satisfactory at present and needs to be improved.