An improved record system for tracing outcome of [transferred-out] DOTS patients

Abstract

This study in Pakistan aimed to develop an improved record-keeping mechanism for the DOTS programme to establish the final treatment status of patients recorded as [‎transferred -out]‎. In an intervention study in 40 DOTS diagnostics centres in Punjab province, a modification was made to the existing TB03 register. DOTS facilitators were trained to keep proper records of patients who transferred-out and transferred-in. Among 4442 registered cases, 104 patients [‎2.3%]‎ transferred out of reporting centres. Correct matching of [‎-out and -in]‎ patients was achieved for 74 [‎71.2%]‎ patients; the remaining 30 [‎28.8%]‎ were untraced. By tracing transferred-out cases, the adjusted outcome success rate increased in the intervention period from 89.6% to 90.9%