Tuberculosis - Case Management

CTPP provides case management services to persons who are placed on treatment for latent TB infection. Case managers are bilingual, bicultural promoters of treatment adherence. They coordinate patient care to ensure that patients' TB-related medical and psychosocial needs are met.

Clients are empowered to participate in the formulation and implementation of their care plans. CIH's language initiative facilitates the development and translation of educational materials provided to clients.

CTPP recognizes that clients placed on treatment for latent TB infection historically have failed to complete treatment for a number of reasons:
1. Long duration of treatment: 9 months.
2. Lack of knowledge about TB.
3. Cultural beliefs in conflict with western medical practices.
4. TB stigma.
5. The complex U.S. health care system, which is difficult to navigate.
6. Immigration and confidentiality related fears.
7. Fear of medication side effects.

Despite the many potential barriers to adherence, CTPP achieves an 80% adherence rate. This is facilitated by: a) the close relationship the case managers have with their clients; b) incentives such as movie tickets, food coupons, and metro cards; and c) the collaboration with the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DOHMH) clinics to help create and maintain a user-friendly service delivery system.

 

 

 

 

Center for Immigrant Health
New York University School of Medicine
550 First Avenue, New York, NY 10016
© 2001 New York University
(212) 263-7300
Contact the Webmaster
Ethics and Disclaimer
NYU Home
Project Areas About Us Work Opportunities Contact Us Publications What's New Tuberculosis Cancer Language Initiatives Cultural Initiatives Insurance & Access Technology History Mission Methodology People Executive Committee Funders Background Mission Needs Assessment School Home School Home CIH Home Background & Mission Project Areas Mission Background Interpretation Translation Research Background & Mission project Initiatives