Designing an optimized diagnostic network to improve access to TB diagnosis and treatment in Lesotho.

ABSTRACT: BACKGROUND:To reach WHO End tuberculosis (TB) targets, countries need a quality-assured laboratory network equipped with rapid diagnostics for tuberculosis diagnosis and drug susceptibility testing. Diagnostic network analysis aims to inform instrument placement, sample referral, staffing, geographical prioritization, integration of testing enabling targeted investments and programming to meet priority needs. METHODS:Supply chain modelling and optimization software was used to map Lesotho's TB diagnostic network using available data sources, including laboratory and programme reports and health and demographic surveys. Various scenarios were analysed, including current network configuration and inclusion of additional GeneXpert and/or point of care instruments. Different levels of estimate

SUBMITTER: Albert H 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7269260 | biostudies-literature | 2020

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature