Tuberculosis care in community care organizations in sub-Saharan Africa: practice and potential.

Abstract

Despite most community care organizations' shortcomings in tuberculosis care, they do have the potential to improve the care of tuberculosis patients, thus reducing the load on overstretched health facilities. Their potential impact on tuberculosis control depends on their population coverage and sustainability. HIV/AIDS community care organizations with strengthened management of tuberculosis care could serve as a model for expanded community participation in tuberculosis control. Operational research is needed to assess the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of community-based TB care.